iPhone Duo sidebar takes 15% of small screen

The iPhone Duo's mandatory sidebar consumes approximately 15% of its 5.4-inch cover display, leaving a large section of the screen unused for main content.

This design choice is drawing early criticism as users receive the device. The side panel was introduced to simplify navigation, but its placement on the right side creates a noticeable gap in the usable area.

Allison Johnson of The Verge noted that the iPhone Duo feels harder to manage with one hand than Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 8. She pointed out that the Fold 8 has a taller, narrower physical shape, which makes its outer screen easier to reach and navigate.

The difference in screen efficiency is stark when comparing the two devices. On the Galaxy Z Fold 8, users can rely on gesture controls that keep the display free for media and apps. Even when the Fold 8 uses a navigation bar, the wasted space is minimal.

In contrast, the iPhone Duo restricts the available area to stretch media vertically, mimicking the aspect ratio of a traditional slab phone. Johnson described this as a space-saving solution that works, but she observed that the Galaxy Z Fold 8 proves that leaving the space open for content is more effective.

This is Apple's first attempt at a wide foldable, and early impressions suggest the software has not yet caught up with the hardware. Samsung has spent years refining Android for large screens, while iOS on the iPhone Duo still leaves room for improvement in how it utilizes the available pixels.

The iPhone Duo is currently available to buyers, though stock is limited. Samsung continues to see strong success with the Galaxy Z Fold 8, which benefits from a more mature approach to multi-screen navigation.