Apple is developing a new version of its Reachability feature for the iPhone Duo, with the software expected to make the foldable phone’s wide display easier to use one-handed.

The iPhone Duo has a 7.6-inch foldable screen and is priced at about A$2,849 based on the US$2,000 price cited in the source. Unlike conventional iPhones, its main usability challenge is width rather than height.

On current iPhones, Reachability shifts the upper portion of the interface downwards so controls are easier to reach with one hand. According to WIRED’s Julian Chokkattu, Apple plans to adapt the feature for the Duo by allowing users to bring the left or right sides of the interface closer to their thumb.

Apple has not yet detailed exactly how the system will work, but the change is expected later this year.

iPhone Duo

The need for a revised Reachability mode reflects the different proportions of Apple’s first foldable. When opened, the Duo provides around 50 per cent more display area than an iPhone 18 Pro Max, while its outer screen offers around 90 per cent of the display area of an iPhone 18 Pro.

The feature could potentially be used across both the internal and external screens, although Apple has not confirmed that.

The update also highlights the software challenges that come with larger foldable displays. While the Duo introduces considerably more screen space, iOS still needs to adapt some familiar features to work comfortably across the wider format.

For users with smaller hands, the sideways version of Reachability could make everyday navigation more practical without requiring a constant two-handed grip.

Apple has not announced a specific release date beyond later this year.