iPhone Duo Sidebar Permanently Hides 15 Percent of Outer Display
Apple's new foldable limits the outer display with a fixed dock, a design choice that contrasts with the flexible interface of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8.
By Carolina Wood ·
The iPhone Duo uses a fixed sidebar that occupies 15 percent of its 5.4-inch outer display. This design decision reduces the available area for content on the device's secondary screen. The layout mirrors the dock system found on larger iPads, which Apple has adapted for the smaller foldable format.
Allison Johnson of The Verge noted that the iPhone Duo feels harder to use with one hand than its main competitor. She compared the experience directly to the Galaxy Z Fold 8. The Samsung device features a taller and narrower physical profile. This shape allows users to operate the outer screen more easily without stretching their fingers.
The fixed dock on the iPhone Duo sits on the right side of the cover screen. It blocks a portion of the display that remains unused for most tasks. Johnson explained that Apple attempted to save space by restricting the usable area. This compression makes media appear taller, similar to how content displays on standard slab phones. However, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 leaves that space open for main content.
Visual comparisons show a stark difference in screen usage. A post on Twitter/X illustrated the gap between the two devices. When the Galaxy Z Fold 8 uses navigation gestures, very little screen space is wasted. The iPhone Duo, by contrast, permanently hides a section of its display behind the sidebar. This creates a smaller canvas for apps and media on the outside of the fold.
Apple’s first attempt at a wide foldable format faces criticism for its software implementation. The company has had to adapt iOS for a new hardware shape. Previous generations of Samsung foldables struggled with Android optimization. As those devices matured, Google and Samsung refined the operating system to better suit large screens. Apple is now navigating the same challenges with its initial foldable hardware.
The iPhone Duo is currently available in limited quantities. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 continues to sell well for Samsung. Users who prioritize outer screen utility may find the Samsung device more flexible. The iPhone Duo offers a distinct approach by enforcing a structured layout. This design choice prioritizes consistency over maximum screen real estate on the cover display.
