Apple iPhones Are Falling Behind… But It's Not Just About AI

Published: Aug 31, 2025, 9:26 AM

Since their inception, smartphones have aimed to become our all-in-one digital companions. They allow us to write emails, browse the web, and enjoy streaming services—all from the palm of our hand. So, why do we still reach for laptops and desktops? The answer is simple: the workflow benefits of larger devices. A bigger screen facilitates multiple open tabs, and a physical keyboard is far more comfortable for extended typing. Plus, working with a screen at eye level is better for your posture than constantly looking down at a smartphone.

That said, smartphones have come a long way. With processors that rival entry-level laptops and robust apps for creating and editing content, many people successfully run their businesses entirely from their phones.

So, what's next for smartphones? Enter foldable devices, which aim to address one of the main challenges of mobile computing: screen size. They offer the ability to view and manage multiple apps simultaneously. Manufacturers like Oppo and OnePlus are innovating with features like "Open Canvas," allowing users to interact with multiple apps easily. The Honor Magic V5 has a similar feature, letting users horizontally arrange three apps for quick access.

But what if foldables aren't your thing? Maybe due to concerns about durability, price, or form factor. That's okay; the future lies elsewhere—specifically in enhanced desktop experiences.

The Future is Desktop Experience

Let's give credit where it’s due: Samsung recognized this trend years ago with the launch of its DeX station alongside the Galaxy S8. Initially, DeX required a separate dock, complete with fans for cooling and charging capabilities. Currently, it seems to be a feature exclusive to Pixel devices, but hopefully, it will become available for more Android models in the future.

Where Does Apple Stand?

Apple has been slow to adapt its devices for multi-tasking. The iPad Pro, released in 2015, was essentially an oversized iPad with limited multi-tasking features like Slide Over and Split View. These options are still not universally supported by all apps and only allow for fixed window sizes and placements.

In 2022, Apple introduced Stage Manager, a new way to create floating windows, but it took until 2023 for this feature to become fully functional. Now, an iPad Pro can serve as a portable workstation when connected to a dock and monitor, allowing for a more versatile user experience.

What About the iPhone?

The iPhone's journey has been similar. The iPhone 6 Plus, released in 2014, featured a 5.5-inch screen that was considered large at the time. However, it lacked split-screen capabilities, which were commonplace in competitors like Samsung and LG. It wasn't until 2020 that Apple finally added Picture-in-Picture functionality for iPhones, allowing users to watch videos while multitasking.

In summary, while smartphones have advanced significantly, Apple’s iPhones seem to lag in adapting to multi-tasking needs compared to competitors. The landscape is evolving, and if Apple wants to keep pace, it will need to embrace these features more fully.