iPhone Fold debuts split-screen feature: Apple phone instantly becomes a productivity tool

Reports indicate that Apple is developing a custom operating system experience for its first foldable phone, the iPhone Fold. The device is expected to come pre-installed with iOS 27 and feature several interface and functional optimizations tailored to the foldable form factor, providing users with a large-screen experience somewhere between a traditional iPhone and a tablet.

It is understood that a key highlight of the iPhone Fold is the introduction of split-screen functionality to the iPhone product line for the first time. When the device is unfolded, users can run two applications simultaneously, such as browsing the web while replying to messages, or checking emails and documents at the same time, thereby improving multitasking efficiency. This feature is designed with practicality in mind and is expected to be available only on foldable models in the short term.

In terms of interaction, the split-screen experience is quite similar to the multitasking operation of the iPad mini, maintaining a simple and intuitive overall logic. However, unlike front-end scheduling, the iPhone Fold does not offer a desktop-like feature of freely arranging multiple windows. Instead, it focuses on common split-screen scenarios to reduce the learning curve caused by complex operations.

At the interface level, iOS 27 will also feature exclusive optimizations for the large-screen form factor of foldable screens. For example, in the unfolded state, some app interfaces will include a left-side navigation bar similar to that of tablet devices, making function access clearer. The system will also adjust app adaptation logic to allow various apps to make fuller use of display space in widescreen ratios, minimizing issues such as black borders or screen stretching.

Furthermore, Apple is attempting to improve the limitations of foldable devices in terms of display on the outer and inner screens through a new screen ratio design, enabling a more immersive experience in scenarios such as video playback and gaming. It’s worth noting that the Huawei Pura X2, featuring a similar wide-ratio design, is also expected to be released next month and is considered the world’s first wide-ratio foldable phone.

Editor’s Review:

As the foldable screen market matures, Apple clearly aims to enhance the user experience through deep system-level optimizations, rather than simply adding more features. If the iPhone Fold can establish a stable ecosystem in terms of app compatibility and multitasking, its entry into the market may further propel foldable phones towards a more mature stage.