Community Shared by a reader · Technology 10 Sept 2026

Apple made fun of Android apps on foldables, but iPhone Duo has the same problem [Gallery]

Apple criticized Android foldables for app display issues, but its own iPhone Duo faces the same problem with older apps.

Reported by 9to5Google · context written by Hushread

In brief

  1. Apple highlighted problems with how Android foldables display certain apps during the iPhone Duo launch event.
  2. The iPhone Duo also letterboxes apps that are not updated for its new foldable display, just like Android devices did.
  3. Apple's CEO John Ternus pointed out that older Android foldables made large screens feel smaller due to black bars around apps.
  4. Apple documentation confirms that apps not updated for iOS 27 or 27.1 will not fully use the Duo's foldable screen.
  5. iOS developers may update their apps more quickly for the new form factor, potentially giving Apple an advantage over Android.
Apple made fun of Android apps on foldables, but iPhone Duo has the same problem [Gallery]
Source: 9to5Google

What happened

During the launch of the iPhone Duo, Apple criticized Android foldables for displaying some apps with black bars, making the screen feel smaller. However, it was later revealed that the iPhone Duo has the same issue with apps that are not updated for the latest iOS version, as these apps also appear with black bars on the foldable display.

Why it matters

This affects users who rely on older or less frequently updated apps, as they may not get the full experience of the new foldable display. The way apps adapt to new screen formats can impact how useful and enjoyable these devices are for consumers.

How we got here

Foldable phones have struggled with app compatibility because many apps were designed for standard rectangular screens. Android devices faced this issue early on, but improvements have been made as more developers update their apps. Apple is now facing a similar challenge as it enters the foldable market with the iPhone Duo.

What happens next

We can expect to see how quickly iOS developers update their apps for the iPhone Duo and whether Apple's approach leads to a better experience for users compared to Android foldables.