Ahead of Apple’s announcement event scheduled for September 9th, the most curious thing about the foldable iPhone “iPhone Ultra” is what it can do with the open screen. To conclude first, the key is not the main unit but the split display of iOS27. Depending on whether you can use two apps side by side, this device can be used as a “big iPhone” or as a “portable iPad mini.” I will consider the practicality based on my experience with iPad and how it is used in Japan.
What can you do with split view on iPhone Ultra?
In this article, the function that displays two apps side by side on one screen is referred to as “split display” for convenience. The official name for the iPhone Ultra has not yet been revealed. According to reports from overseas media, iOS 27 will include multitasking functions including split display, and more apps will be compatible with horizontal display.
The inside is said to be approximately 7.7 inches, and can be used in the following ways.
- Send a message to your meeting partner while displaying the map
- While reading a web page, copy the main points in the notes app next to it.
- Leave the recipe open and place a timer or shopping notes next to it.
- Compare photos and choose one to send to chat
In either case, rather than “operating two at the same time”, you are looking at one while inputting to the other.
What does the iPhone Ultra’s landscape support mean?
iPhone apps have evolved around the ability to operate vertically with one hand. While there are apps that default to landscape orientation, such as videos and games, there are also apps that remain in portrait layout even if you switch to landscape orientation.
Behind the story that the number of compatible apps will increase, it is the developers of each app that are in charge. It’s not enough for Apple to just provide standard apps; split display only comes into play when it supports apps that are used every day. The compatibility status immediately after release is an important factor to check before purchasing.
Is split display practical at approximately 7.7 inches?
I use split view on my iPad on a daily basis, but even with an 11-inch screen, the second app only plays a supporting role. If you divide the screen, which is said to be approximately 7.7 inches, into left and right sides, one side will be shorter vertically and wider horizontally, making it an area close to the size of a single regular iPhone.
Although it is possible to secure one screen at a time, the amount of information arranged vertically will be reduced. It is difficult to fully work on both sides, and this constraint is the reason why the previous four examples all lean toward the “input while referring to” format. The reason behind the divided evaluations of foldable terminals is the difference in design philosophy regarding how to use the open screen.
How can you use iPhone Ultra in Japan?
Specific situations where split display is effective
Combinations such as LINE and a browser, and maps and messages come to mind as apps that are frequently used in Japan. A typical example of the power of split display is when you need to contact someone while checking the meeting location on a map.
time spent closed
However, there are not many situations where you open your device wide on a commuter train. In a crowded car, the outer screen, which is estimated to be approximately 5.3 inches, is sufficient. No matter how comprehensive the split display is, there will likely be a considerable number of scenes where the display is completed only on the outside.
Which to choose: iPhone Ultra or iPad mini?
Readers who use an iPad mini will be interested in the close screen size of approximately 7.7 inches. A screen that’s a little smaller than the 8.3-inch iPad mini can be folded up and carried around, giving you more space at your fingertips.
*iPhone Ultra specifications are expected based on overseas media reports and are not confirmed information.
| Comparison items | iPhone Ultra (estimated) | iPad mini |
|---|---|---|
| screen size | Approximately 7.7 inches (opened) | 8.3 inch |
| voice call | Possible with the main unit alone | Supports making and receiving calls via iPhone |
| Suitable use | Short operations on the go | Browsing for long periods of time |
It still makes sense to use the two together. The iPhone Ultra is the one you always carry with you, and the iPad mini is the one you use to read carefully.
Is the iPhone Ultra a device worth the price?
According to reports from overseas media, the price is expected to be more than $2,000. However, the listed price in the US excludes tax, and Apple’s official price in Japan includes tax. It is usually higher than a simple exchange rate conversion, and if you include tax, it may reach the high 300,000 yen range.
Japanese prices are not determined solely by exchange rates, and in the past there have been cases where prices remained unchanged even when exchange rates moved. It is difficult to estimate a specific amount at this point, and the only deciding factor is how far the split display has been made. I would like to pay attention to how many compatible apps will be listed in the announcement and whether there will be names other than those made by Apple.
Photo:9to5Mac
Source: iPhone Mania
