The iPhone Duo is not only Apple’s first foldable iPhone, but also a device that can be placed in multiple ways. Thanks to the foldable design, the iPhone can stand independently. Apple makes good use of this with a new version of Standby mode.
As soon as you put the iPhone Duo down, Standby is automatically activated. This happens with both the inner and outer screens and even when the iPhone is not charging. This easily turns the iPhone Duo into a digital clock, photo frame or widget screen.
Standby not new, but improved
The Standby function is not new and is already available for all iPhone models. This feature turns the iPhone into a smart screen when the device is positioned horizontally while charging. You see useful information such as a clock, photos or widgets for calendar and weather. The screen also shows Live Activities and notifications in a larger size, and switches to a dim, red night mode in low light so as not to disturb.
This function has been updated for the foldable iPhone Duo to make optimal use of the bendable screen. Thanks to the flexible hinge positions, the iPhone Duo can be placed semi-opened on a desk as a ‘tent’ or ‘laptop’ stand, allowing the function to be used for the first time without having to connect the device to the charger. In addition, the dual display makes it possible to run two different Standby views side by side.
Standby works without charger
On regular iPhone models, Standby can only be used when the device is charged horizontally, for example on a charging stand such as Belkin or Ugreen. This limitation no longer applies to the iPhone Duo. The device recognizes when it is put down and automatically switches to Standby, regardless of whether a cable or wireless charger is connected.
That makes the function a lot more flexible. For example, you can place the iPhone Duo on your desk as a compact information display, use it on the bedside table as a clock or place it while cooking to display widgets and a delicious vegetarian recipe to view.
Different modes and screens
The iPhone Duo can be placed partially unfolded. Depending on the position, iOS uses the screen that faces forward. This allows you to use the phone in a kind of tent mode, with one large visible screen or with the outdoor display on the front.
The foldable housing functions as a built-in stand. A separate accessory is therefore not necessary, although Apple also sells an iPhone Duo Folio with an integrated stand for extra viewing angles.
New watch faces for Duo
Apple expands Standby with new screen layouts. In addition to the familiar clock and modular display, there are special dials for:
- Agenda, with appointments and date information.
- Weather, with current weather information.
- Clock, for a traditional time display.
- Widgets, including music, battery and other current data.
The various dials can be customized more extensively than on previous iPhones. Users can combine new colors, fonts and complications to tailor the appearance to their preferences.
Digital photo frame
The photo display turns the iPhone Duo into a digital photo frame. Photos from the library can be displayed full screen, with the iPhone automatically switching through different images.
What is new is that shared albums can also be used in Standby. This allows you, for example, to display holiday photos, family photos or a joint album on the screen.
Handy as a bedside clock
The iPhone Duo is particularly suitable as a bedside clock due to its foldable design. You can place the device half-opened, after which the inner screen functions as a large clock display.
Apple uses a calm display with a soft glow. In addition, the screen can gradually light up around the time of an alarm, so that you wake up in a more pleasant way.
The iPhone Duo can therefore combine different devices: an alarm clock, a calendar, a weather station and a photo frame. Because charging is not necessary, you can also place the device anywhere. For long-term use, connecting to a charger is of course wise.
Widgets and current information
Standby is also intended as a central widget screen. You can quickly access information without first fully opening the iPhone or launching an app. The larger interior of the iPhone Duo offers more space for widgets than a traditional iPhone screen. Consider:
- The weather and forecast.
- Appointments from the Calendar app.
- Music control.
- Battery levels of paired devices.
- Timers and other current activities.
- Photos and shared albums.
Standby matches the foldable design
The updated Standby mode clearly shows how Apple coordinates hardware and software. The iPhone Duo no longer needs to lie flat on a charger, but can be used independently in different positions thanks to the hinge. This makes the function especially interesting for situations in which you temporarily do not want to hold the iPhone in your hand.