We’ve all grown accustomed to the iPhone being one screen with one app on it. Yes, landscape mode introduced some expanded layouts, but true multitasking was far off. And now the first foldable iPhone appears to finally change that. First we learned what the final design of the iPhone Fold would look like, and now Mark Gurman from Bloomberg has shared new details about how the device’s interface will work, and the main news is two apps side by side on one screen.
It seems we already know almost everything about iPhone Fold. Image: the-geek.ru
What We Know About iPhone Fold
Apple is preparing to unveil the iPhone Fold or possibly even Ultra, most likely this fall alongside the iPhone 18 Pro lineup. The device will run on iOS 27, a preview of which is expected in June at WWDC. However, specific software features designed specifically for the foldable iPhone will most likely not be shown until the device itself is announced.
The inner screen of iPhone Fold is comparable in size to iPad mini. A compact tablet in your pocket — sounds like a dream. Image: phonearena.com
According to Bloomberg sources, the inner foldable display of the iPhone Fold will be roughly the size of the iPad mini screen. The outer screen will be comparable in size to a compact iPhone display. For comparison, existing foldable smartphones from competitors typically have more elongated proportions, while Apple has apparently chosen a wider aspect ratio.
Two main advantages of this form factor, according to Gurman: convenient video viewing and the ability to adapt existing iPhone apps for the new large screen.
How Multitasking Will Work on iPhone Fold
The main software feature of iPhone Fold is the ability to run two apps simultaneously, side by side. Until now, no iPhone has ever had such a feature. This is the first time Apple is bringing iPad-like multitasking to its smartphone.
You’ll be able to place two apps on the iPhone screen. For the first time
But that’s not all. Apple is developing new app layouts for iOS and redesigning its core apps, adding sidebars along the left edge of the screen, similar to what’s already done in many iPad apps. Third-party developers will also be able to adapt their apps for the new interface, whose proportions will resemble iPad in landscape mode.
An important detail: iPhone Fold will not support running iPad apps. A full windowing system, like on an iPad mini of similar size, is also not planned. In other words, Apple is adapting specifically iPhone apps rather than trying to turn the foldable smartphone into a small tablet.
What iPhone Fold Looks Like
Earlier, 3D files with the presumed device design appeared online, giving a decent idea of what to expect. The design includes a camera bump similar to iPhone Air, but with two cameras instead of one. Two corners of the body are rounded, while the other two, where the hinge is located, have a rectangular shape.
The iPhone Fold design has already leaked online. Image: @SonnyDickson
The images also show the iPhone Fold layout in its unfolded state. The dot in the upper left corner indicates the front camera. Other images show the external sides of the smartphone — both in the open position and folded, with the outer display.
Gurman in his Bloomberg report confirms several of these details, adding credibility to the leaks. In fact, this is an unusual situation for Apple — the Cupertino company typically guards its secrets much more carefully.
How iPhone Fold Differs From Other Foldable Smartphones
You might think foldable smartphones are nothing new — Samsung, Google, and other manufacturers have been releasing them for years. But Apple, as is often the case, has gone its own way. The wider aspect ratio of the inner display compared to existing foldable smartphones isn’t just a designer’s whim. These proportions specifically allow for more comfortable work with two apps simultaneously and a better video viewing experience.
Looks beautiful. Image: phonearena.com
At the same time, Apple didn’t copy the tablet experience entirely. The lack of iPad app support and a windowing system indicates that the company wants to keep iPhone Fold as a smartphone, albeit one with expanded capabilities. The thing is, attempting to cram a full tablet interface into a foldable smartphone often leads to compromises that ruin the experience.
The iPhone Fold announcement is expected in September alongside the iPhone 18 Pro. Until then, Apple is unlikely to reveal all its cards, but the leaks are already painting a rather intriguing picture. Video on an iPad mini-sized screen is perhaps the main selling point for those who love watching TV shows on the go.
The first foldable iPhone promises to be more than just another device with a flexible screen — it’s a reimagining of how we use apps on a smartphone. Two apps side by side, sidebars, and proportions tailored for content — Apple clearly aimed for practical utility rather than a flashy folding trick.
