Apple is preparing to introduce its first foldable iPhone with changes to the iOS software that will allow users to run two apps side by side, reports Bloomberg. Citing people familiar with the matter, the publication says that Apple’s foldable iPhone may feature a foldable internal display close in size to the screen of an iPad mini paired with a smaller external display. The handset is expected to arrive later this year as Apple’s entry into the foldable smartphone market.
The phone’s internal display is expected to use a wider aspect ratio than many foldable phones currently on the market. The design is intended to make the device more suitable for activities such as watching videos and using apps.
Apple is also updating several built-in iPhone apps so that they can display sidebars on the left side of the screen. Developers will be able to adjust their apps to fit the new layout, which will resemble the proportions of an iPad in landscape mode.
Despite these changes, the device will continue to run the standard iOS operating system instead of iPadOS. This means it will not support multiple windows like the iPad but will allow two apps to appear on the screen at the same time.
Apple foldable iPhone: Expected design and hardware details
According to the report, the foldable iPhone will include an external screen about the size of a small iPhone display. The internal foldable screen will open to a larger display.
Apple has reportedly worked on reducing the crease that appears when the screen is folded.
The company has used a different display technology that may reduce the crease, though it may still be visible.
The device is also designed to improve durability by increasing the number of times the screen can be folded and unfolded before wearing out.
Apple foldable iPhone: Expected camera and security features
The external display will include a hole-punch cutout for the front camera. This will replace the pill-shaped notch used on current iPhones.
Apple is expected to remove the Face ID system on this device and instead include Touch ID in the side button. This would mark the first iPhone with a fingerprint sensor since the third-generation iPhone SE released in 2022.
The foldable iPhone is expected to include two rear cameras. Reports suggest the device may be priced at around $2,000 and positioned at the top of Apple’s iPhone lineup. Apple has not commented on the report.
