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The control bar on the right edge is one of the most talked-about features of the iPhone Duo. Apple apparently wants to make it easier to access, but in a different way than on the iPhone. However, this feature won't be available at launch on Friday.
According to WIRED, Apple plans to bring one-handed mode to the iPhone Duo via a software update later this year. This information comes from Julian Chokkattu's review of the device, which will be available in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland on October 23. Apple refers to the feature, called Reachability in English, as Einhandmodus (one-handed mode) in German. Specifications, pricing, and release dates for the device can be found in the iPhone Duo overview.
Key Facts at a Glance
- According to WIRED, Apple plans to bring one-handed mode to the iPhone Duo via an update in 2026.
- Unlike previous iPhones, it should make the left or right edge of the screen accessible, not the top one.
- It should be triggered by tapping.
- The feature will not be available at the sales launch on October 23rd.
Sideways instead of downwards
On previous iPhones, one-handed mode pulls the top half of the display down so the thumb can reach it. According to WIRED, on the Duo, the feature will make the left or right edge of the screen accessible, intended for people with smaller hands. It will be activated with a tap.
This fits the design. When folded, the Duo is shorter and wider than any other iPhone, so the challenge lies less at the top and more at the sides. On iOS 27, the dock, status bar, and many controls are located on the right edge of the iPhone Duo.
What the tests on the right groin say
In initial reviews, the right-hand sidebar was among the most frequently mentioned issues. Chance Miller of 9to5Mac deliberately used the device with his left hand and found it difficult to reach the upper right corner, which opens the Control Center. Abrar Al-Heeti of CNET points out that the controls cannot be moved to the left side.
Chokkattu himself told WIRED that the main consequence of the bar is wasted screen space in apps that haven't yet been adapted. He advises waiting a few months before buying until developers have caught up, and cites one-handed mode as another reason.
Where to find one-handed mode today
One-handed mode is one of the iPhone's accessibility features; Apple categorizes it under "Body and Motor Skills" in the user manual. On previous models, it moves the top of the display downwards. The Duo model lacks this side-mounted feature at launch.
Why timing matters
I consider this one of the more important improvements needed for the Duo. The right-hand bar is not a minor detail, but rather the central operating concept of the device, and it is precisely this bar that has been criticized for its accessibility in the tests.
Those who get their hands on the Duo on Friday, and especially those who use the left hand, will notice the difference most clearly. The Duo thus launches with two incomplete features. All news items are collected on the iPhone Duo topic page.
Do you primarily use your iPhone with your left hand, and would the lack of a one-handed mode at launch be a reason for you to wait for the Duo? Tell us in the comments how you feel.
