iPhone Duo sidebar leaves empty space on small screen

Apple’s first wide foldable phone has arrived, but early users are pointing out limitations in the software that govern the device’s smaller display. While the hardware itself appears promising, the way iOS manages the 5.4-inch cover screen is drawing scrutiny. Critics argue that the operating system does not fully utilize the available real estate, creating a noticeable gap in usability compared to its main competitor.

Allison Johnson of The Verge noted that the iPhone Duo feels more difficult to handle with one hand than the Galaxy Z Fold 8. The Galaxy device has a taller, narrower physical profile, which makes its outer screen easier to reach and operate. For users who prefer the unique utility of a large outer display, this physical difference influences how intuitive the phone feels in daily use.

A specific software choice exacerbates the issue on the iPhone Duo. Apple implemented a sidebar on the right side of the cover screen, intended to simplify navigation. However, this design decision leaves a large portion of the display unused. The dock placement creates a blank area that does not serve a clear purpose, effectively reducing the usable width for apps and media.

Posts on Twitter/X have illustrated the contrast between the two devices. When the Galaxy Z Fold 8 uses gesture navigation, almost no screen space is wasted on the outer display. In contrast, the iPhone Duo’s interface reserves a fixed section for the sidebar, regardless of the content being displayed. A video review from The Verge showed that even when the Galaxy device uses a navigation bar instead of gestures, the difference in wasted space remains stark.

Apple’s approach seems designed to treat the small display like a traditional slab phone. By constraining the width, the system stretches media to appear taller. This method aims to save space for specific elements but limits the flexibility of the main content area. The Galaxy Z Fold 8, by comparison, leaves the full width open for primary content, which reviewers suggest works more effectively for most use cases.

The iPhone Duo is currently available for purchase, though stock is limited. Meanwhile, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 continues to gain traction in the market. As more users take the new Apple device out of the box, these early observations regarding screen efficiency are shaping the initial conversation about its practicality.

The debate centers on whether the convenience of a built-in sidebar outweighs the loss of display area. For now, the hardware is in users’ hands, and the software choices are visible on every unlock.