Apple’s first foldable iPhone may support side-by-side apps with iPad-style layout

Day by day, several new details are emerging about the highly-rumoured foldable Apple phone. The latest report claims that the device could bring a different type of user experience compared to current iPhone models. The device, widely referred to as the iPhone Fold, is expected to combine smartphone portability with tablet-style usability.

iPhone Fold may bring iPad-like multitasking

According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple’s foldable phone could feature an interface inspired by the iPad when the device is unfolded. The larger internal display is likely to support multitasking, allowing two applications to run side by side. This would mark a significant change because existing iPhone models do not allow two apps to run simultaneously on the main display, apart from limited picture-in-picture support.

Apps on the expanded screen may also include sidebars positioned along the left edge, similar to layouts found on several iPad applications. Apple is reportedly preparing tools that will allow developers to adjust their existing apps to work properly with the wider foldable display.

The foldable handset is expected to function like a hybrid device. When closed, it may resemble a regular slab-style iPhone with a typical outer screen. Once unfolded, the device could offer a display size closer to the iPad mini, giving users a larger viewing area for multitasking and media consumption.

Expected design, hardware and pricing details

In terms of design, Apple’s foldable iPhone is believed to feature a wider display with a 4:3 aspect ratio. This layout may make the device more suitable for watching videos, browsing content and running two apps simultaneously.

Reports further indicate that the device could include a 5.5-inch outer display and a 7.8-inch internal screen. The outer display may include a hole-punch front camera and support Dynamic Island notifications. Instead of Face ID, Apple is reportedly considering a fingerprint sensor integrated into the power button.

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The rear section may include dual cameras due to space constraints inside the foldable body. The handset is also expected to run iOS rather than iPadOS, meaning it may not support the full multitasking system available on iPads.

Reports suggest the iPhone Fold could arrive in 2026 with a starting price of around $2,000 (~Rs 1,85,000), which would make it the most expensive iPhone Apple has introduced so far.

Stay tuned to Unboxed by Croma to know everything about the Apple iPhone Fold.