Wide foldables seem like a solution to numerous issues, and I'm eager to see Apple take a shot at it.

      Huawei’s broader foldable design has generated excitement for the future of foldable smartphones. The new Pura X Max features a wider, more passport-like shape instead of the typical tall and narrow foldable style, resulting in a more practical device. This is why the rumors surrounding Apple’s foldable iPhone have started to resonate with me.

      The wider design addresses the shortcomings of traditional foldables.

      Many foldable phones often feel like two compromised devices trying to function as one. When closed, they can be either too narrow or too thick. While they offer more screen space when open, it doesn't always translate to a naturally useful experience. Simply having a larger screen doesn't equate to better usability if the aspect ratio feels awkward.

      A wider foldable alters this dynamic. When closed, it can resemble a standard smartphone, and when opened, it can function more like a small tablet rather than just an elongated phone. This makes for a more convincing application of folding technology.

      This is why Apple’s rumored shorter, wider foldable seems appealing. Even if it’s slightly more challenging to fit in a pocket, the trade-off could be worthwhile if the device feels more balanced in hand and genuinely more functional when unfolded.

      This could resemble a pocket-sized iPad mini.

      If Apple introduces a wider iPhone Fold, it might avoid the “gimmicky” trap and provide functionality akin to a portable iPad mini. This design could be more suitable for reading, watching videos, browsing, jotting down notes, and managing split-screen applications without feeling confined.

      The device could replicate some aspects of the portable secondary-screen functionality that enhances the iPad mini's utility within Apple's ecosystem. Thus, it’s not merely about Apple releasing its first foldable product, but rather about how it could effectively merge the features of two different device categories.

      Apple also seems prepared to make genuine sacrifices to achieve this. Recent reports indicate that the foldable iPhone might completely omit Face ID, opting instead for under-display camera technology on the inner screen. It may even retain Camera Control, which suggests Apple is striving to maintain the iPhone's identity while transitioning to a much larger foldable format.

      Apple may make the experience feel seamless.

      While Huawei demonstrates that the hardware concept is feasible, given its limited availability, Apple might be the brand to truly introduce users to this new style of foldables. However, it won't be alone; reports also indicate that Samsung is developing a Wide Fold, which is expected to feature a shorter, wider design with a 4:3 inner display and a more tablet-like appearance when unfolded.

      If Apple perfects the software, a wide iPhone Fold could serve as a significantly improved portable second screen for tasks like document work, split-screen applications, video calls, and cross-device continuity. This is where Apple holds its strongest advantage. The company may not always be first to market, but it excels at creating devices that feel effortless to use.