Rivian iPhone Duo App Redesign Set for Next Update, Software Chief Says

Rivian is rolling out a dedicated mobile app layout tailored for Apple’s foldable iPhone Duo in its upcoming version 3.18 software release.

Chief Software Officer Wassym Bensaid previewed the split-screen layout on Tuesday, October 27, four days after Apple’s foldable handset went on sale.

Rivian app update will adapt to the iPhone Duo’s larger display

In a demonstration clip posted on X, Bensaid showed the redesigned interface spanning the unfolded inner screen, placing a live vehicle rendering, state-of-charge readout and lock controls on the left pane while arranging quick-access tiles for climate, energy, Gear Guard and vehicle location on the right.

Owners will also be able to customize pinned action shortcuts for functions such as opening the motorized charge port door, popping the liftgate or triggering the vehicle alarm, according to Eletric Vehicles.

Rivian has not announced a release date for version 3.18, which will succeed the October 6 release of version 3.17.0 that introduced Pet Comfort settings, warranty summaries and Gmail integration for Rivian Assistant.

The redesign follows criticism of Rivian’s existing app layout

The dual-pane overhaul addresses early complaints after the $1,999-to-$3,199 iPhone Duo launched on October 23 across the United States and more than 70 regions. In an early test shared by 9to5Mac Editor-in-Chief Chance Miller, Rivian’s unoptimized app ran inside iOS 27’s narrow compatibility column framed by black borders because full dual-panel layouts require Apple’s iOS 27.1 developer tools.

By contrast, rival Tesla pushed out version 4.62.3 of its mobile app on October 21—two days ahead of the phone’s retail debut—bringing native dual-screen formatting for the iPhone Duo alongside iPad and Android tablet support.

Because CEO RJ Scaringe has kept Apple CarPlay out of Rivian’s cabin infotainment system in favor of an in-house digital ecosystem, the smartphone app remains the primary link between Rivian vehicles and Apple hardware.

EV.com tracks the evolving EV collector space and performance electric vehicles hitting the market. Explore our listings to find the best EVs in your area available today.