Apple has the first foldable iPhone starting this falland the latest rumors make it clearer than ever that the iPhone Fold will combine two of my favorite products—iPhone mini and iPad mini—into a single device.
My story with iPhone 12 mini and iPad mini
I’ve used many different iPhone and iPad models over the years, with different sizes and powers. And two of my all-time favorites are the iPhone mini and the iPad mini.
I owned an iPhone 12 mini in 2020 and loved it. It was a great pleasure to use with one hand. But when rumors said the iPhone 13 mini would be the last small model, I reluctantly went ahead and upgraded to an iPhone Pro.
Also, before the iPad Pro launched in 2015 and became my full-time computer, I was an avid iPad mini user.
The iPad mini gave me everything I wanted from an iPad back then, when I was still using a MacBook Air as a laptop. One of my favorite things about it: the mini fits inside my jacket pocket, so I could carry it anywhere with ease.
These days, I use one iPhone Air AND M5 iPad Pro as my two main devices. But recent rumors about the upcoming iPhone Fold make me think it could bring back those beloved ‘mini’ days—but in a single device.
The iPhone Fold can offer two ‘mini’ devices in one
reporting shows that the iPhone Fold will have a rather strange design for an iPhone.
When folded, it will be significantly shorter, but also wider than all other iPhone models. And when unfolded, it’ll feel a lot like an iPad mini—complete with iPad-like apps.
Screen sizes are evaluated about 5.4 inches for the external screen and 7.8 inches for the internal screen.
By comparison, the iPhone 17 and 17 Pro are 6.3 inches, the iPhone Air 6.5 inches and the iPhone 17 Pro Max 6.9 inches.
After years of 6+-inch iPhone sizes, the iPhone Fold’s roughly 5.4-inch screen will seem small to some.
I’ve never lost my preference for smaller iPhones, so I’m excited to try out the iPhone Fold when folded to see if it replicates the iPhone mini experience.
But I’m even more excited to have what is essentially an iPad mini back in my pocket. But this time, not just when the weather is cold and I can justify a jacket.
Having an iPad-sized portable device in your pants pocket at all times is a very exciting possibility. Especially if, for example, I can use a more desktop-class Safari to work with articles at some point.
I have no doubt that if the iPhone Fold is a hit, Apple will develop versions with larger screens for more users. I know I’m in the minority with my preference for smaller screens.
For now, though, I’m hoping that this first iPhone Fold will allow me to relive those cherished ‘mini’ memories, but in a single device.
What are your thoughts on the rumored iPhone Fold design and size? Tell us in the comments.
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