First foldable iPhone to feature iPad-style multitasking layout
Apple plans to debut a foldable iPhone in September featuring an iPad-style layout with side-by-side multitasking capabilities.
The device represents Apple’s first entry into the foldable market and introduces a new form factor priced at approximately $2,000. According to Bloomberg, the iPhone Fold will function as a hybrid between an iPhone and an iPad, targeting users who require larger screen real estate for productivity tasks.
When opened, the device will display a 4:3 aspect ratio with an iPad-like interface that supports running two applications simultaneously. Developers will receive tools to adapt existing apps for the new layout, and many applications will incorporate left-side sidebars. This multitasking capability marks a departure from previous iPhone models, which only supported picture-in-picture mode.
The iPhone Fold will measure close to the size of an iPad mini when unfolded but will resemble a traditional slab-style iPhone when closed. Apple selected a wider design over a tall format to enhance video watching and side-by-side application usage.
The outer display will function like a standard iPhone screen featuring a hole-punch front-facing camera. The device will not support Face ID; instead, Apple will utilize a fingerprint sensor integrated into the power button. The camera area will support Dynamic Island features for Live Activities and notifications despite lacking a TrueDepth system.
Apple tested an under-display camera for the inner screen but opted for a visible hole-punch camera due to poor image quality from the under-display version. The rear camera system will include dual lenses rather than a triple-lens setup because of internal space constraints.
The iPhone Fold will run iOS rather than iPadOS. It will not support the full range of iPad multitasking features and cannot run existing iPadOS applications.