Over 100,000 Apps Now Optimised for iPhone Duo

Just two weeks after the launch of the iPhone Duo, Apple has officially confirmed that over 100,000 applications in the App Store have been specifically optimised for the new device. This means these programs fully utilise the capabilities of the foldable smartphone's inner and outer screens and have been adapted to the new interface.

What changes for applications

Optimisation involves using the iOS 27.1 SDK, which allows programs to automatically adjust to the device's various modes. When using standard SwiftUI and UIKit components, interface elements shift to the status bar, while a multi-column view opens on the inner screen. According to Apple Vice President Susan Prescott, developer activity has been remarkable, with thousands of updated applications added to the store daily.

For users, finding optimised apps is simple: they carry a special "Made for iPhone Duo" badge in the App Store. The list already includes popular services such as the Microsoft Office suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), as well as Zoom, WhatsApp, YouTube, Instagram, Netflix, and Amazon Prime Video.

What remains left behind

Despite rapid progress, many of the millions of available apps still lack full support. These include Google products (Docs, Sheets, Slides), as well as PayPal, Uber Eats, Venmo, Duolingo, and many others. Applications built with older SDK versions work on the iPhone Duo, but they remain centred on the screen with large black borders on the sides.

Notably, the iOS 27.2 update added Apple Pencil (USB-C) support to the iPhone Duo. This feature is particularly useful for apps like Procreate Pocket or Apple Notes, where users can write and draw. Apple has conducted over 50 special workshops worldwide to make it easier for developers to work with the new screens.

What this means for the user

There is a divide in opinion surrounding the iPhone Duo: some believe the lack of apps is problematic, while others think the situation is exaggerated and will resolve over time. The fact remains that developer interest is high and the pace of updates is increasing daily. For users planning to purchase new technology, it is important to know that most of their daily apps are already fully functional, though some financial or educational services may take several more weeks or months to reach full compatibility.