IMAX has weighed in on an unexpected coincidence involving Apple's newly announced foldable iPhone Duo: the device's inner and outer displays use a 1:1.4 aspect ratio that closely resembles IMAX's own classic 1.43:1 "full-frame" film format.

The similarity was first pointed out in a post on X by a user who asked whether the iPhone Duo's screen shape might lead to more content being formatted for that ratio. IMAX's official account replied with a lighthearted mix of enthusiasm and skepticism, writing, "Love this for them," before adding, "Still not watching movies on a phone..."

Why the Aspect Ratio Coincidence Matters

IMAX's signature 1.43:1 ratio stems from the geometry of its original 15-perforation, 70mm film system, a format long associated with large-format, immersive theatrical presentations. The iPhone Duo's 1:1.4 ratio is not identical, but it lands close enough to draw attention from movie fans and tech enthusiasts alike, given how unusual a boxier screen shape is for a smartphone.

Apple's foldable device features two displays that align into a single continuous frame when opened, sharing the same aspect ratio across both the inner and outer screens. According to Apple, the transition between the open and closed states is designed to feel seamless, and the company has said that in its fully open configuration, the iPhone Duo is the thinnest iPhone ever made.

IMAX's Mixed Reaction

While IMAX's response leaned playful rather than critical, the comment reflects a broader conversation about how unconventional display shapes on mobile devices might influence how and where people consume video content. IMAX's quip that it still won't be "watching movies on a phone" suggests the company isn't rushing to reformat content specifically for foldable smartphone screens, even one with a ratio reminiscent of its own theatrical format.

What Comes Next for the iPhone Duo

Apple has set pre-orders for the iPhone Duo to begin on October 16, ahead of an official launch on October 23. The device marks Apple's first foray into foldable iPhone hardware, introducing a dual-screen design that differs from the single continuous folding display used by some competing foldable phones.

Whether the iPhone Duo's aspect ratio inspires any shift in how movies or other video content are framed for foldable devices remains to be seen. For now, IMAX's tongue-in-cheek acknowledgment underscores just how attention-grabbing Apple's design choice has been, even among companies with no direct stake in the smartphone market.