VoiceOver double tap not working after update on iPhone

Hi Phguy24,

welcome to the Apple (user-to-user) community!

Re: "My dad has issues with his sight and he uses voice over to listen to all his messages but ever since the update came out he has to press the message for about half a second. You used to double tap it instead but I can’t figure out how to change it back".

Great that your Dad has your help! Am no expert in this area, yet your post deserves some response.

Am expecting tat something in Apple Support's documentation can lead to an answer.

You could try going to: Settings > Accessibility > Per-App Settings.

Click the plus sign ( + ) to add the Message app from the list (or from the Home screen if not on list)

Tap Messages to access its settings

More info: Customize visual accessibility settings for specific apps on iPhone - Apple Support

For iOS18: These are the VoiceOver gestures currently in use:

Use VoiceOver gestures on iPhone - Apple Support

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If you still need an answer:

Also: Customize VoiceOver gestures and keyboard shortcuts on iPhone - Apple Support

Eg: says:

" You can customize the gestures and keyboard shortcuts that activate VoiceOver commands.

  Go to Settings  > Accessibility > VoiceOver > Commands."

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In the iPhone User Guide > Table of Contents > Accessibility > are many srticles on using VoiceOver

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You can also reach out to Apple's Accessibility Support Team for help / support with accessibility features:

Either: How to contact Apple for accessibility support - Apple Support

or

Apple's Accessibility Support Website

(NB: You can "Get Support" from the link at the bottom of their website:)

Accessibility Support - Official Apple Support

All the best :-)