GoKawiilApple's foldable iPhone Duo has simpler split-screen than iPadOS 27
Apple's new foldable iPhone Duo introduces an easy split-screen multitasking system, letting users drag an app into half the screen while still seeing the home screen, save app pairs, and even split a video alongside an app. Meanwhile, iPadOS 27 continues to force users into an all-or-nothing choice between full-screen apps and its more complex windowing system.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The comparison highlights that Apple already has a simpler, more elegant multitasking model built for its newest hardware, yet hasn't extended it to the iPad, where many users find windowing overly complicated without a keyboard and trackpad. It raises the question of whether Apple will unify its multitasking approach across devices or continue treating iPad and iPhone software as separate design philosophies.
- iPhone Duo's split-screen lets users multitask without committing to full windowing mode.
- iPadOS 27 still requires an all-or-nothing approach between full-screen apps and complex windowing.
- The iPhone Duo's software suggests a simpler multitasking model Apple could eventually bring to iPad.
Apple iPad mini (A17 Pro) — The article keeps circling back to the iPad mini as the tablet that would benefit most from elegant split-screen multitasking, and it's still the most pocketable iPad Apple makes. Its compact size makes it a natural companion for reading, note-taking, and side-by-side app use on the go.
See Apple iPad mini (A17 Pro) on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: 9to5mac.com — Michael Burkhardt, 2026-09-12
Published there as: “Apple nailed iPhone Duo split screen, even as iPad multitasking feels convoluted”
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