The hack depends on an exploit that methods the iPhone’s working system into considering it’s operating on an iPad. That unlocks smallish tweaks comparable to a panorama House Display screen, an iPad-style app switcher, and extra Dock objects. However it additionally supplies transformative adjustments comparable to operating desktop-grade apps that aren’t accessible for iPhone, full windowed multitasking, and optimum exterior show help. All with out Apple Silicon breaking a sweat.
Deskblocked
The exploit is already patched within the iOS 26.2 beta, and the Redditor accused Apple of locking out iPhone customers and artificially limiting older gadgets to push upgrades. However are issues actually that straightforward?
It’s not just like the “phone as PC” dream is new. Android’s been chasing it since DeX debuted in 2017. Barely anybody cares. So why ought to Apple? Maybe the idea is a distinct segment nerd fantasy. And there’s the longtime argument that if you wish to do “proper” work, you want a “proper” laptop. If even an iPad can’t change a pc, how can an iPhone?
In June, after 15 years, the iPad acquired key software program options, together with resizable and movable home windows.
Courtesy of Apple
Besides, as WIRED demonstrated, an iPad can change a pc for loads of individuals—you simply want the fitting equipment. It due to this fact follows the identical is true for an iPhone operating the very same software program. However the place will any momentum for this future come from?
Android 16 is technically prepared for an additional crack at desktop mode, with a brand new system that builds on DeX. However even now, having lastly escaped beta, it’s buried in developer settings. That is perhaps right down to the grim state of big-screen Android apps, or the desktop expertise itself feeling, politely, “rocky.”
Paradoxically, Apple seems to be additional forward regardless of by no means asserting any of this. It already has a deep ecosystem of desktop-grade iPad apps. And the iPad options operating on iPhone already look polished. Certain, some interface quirks stay, and also you may have to file your fingers to some extent to hit window controls. However the efficiency is quick, fluid, and snappy. So if the expertise is that this good, why is Apple so decided to cover it?
Revenue by Design
One argument is sensible. Apple likes every gadget to be its personal factor, optimized for a particular type issue. It’s eager to finesse the transition between platforms relatively than have one gadget to rule all of them. A telephone lacks a giant display and a bodily keyboard. Plugging these issues in on a practice isn’t as elegant as opening a MacBook or utilizing an iPad related to a Magic Keyboard. Nevertheless, with creativeness, you’ll be able to see the outlines of a brand new ecosystem of worthwhile equipment for a extra succesful iPhone.
May the underside of your iPhone display look extra like this sooner or later? Apple’s present telephone software program definitely makes it potential.
Courtesy of Apple
