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Why the 18:9 Aspect Ratio is Taking Over Smartphones

An increasing number of smartphones feature the up-and-coming 18:9 aspect ratio.

Quick Answer: The 18:9 aspect ratio makes it easier for smartphone users to use two apps at once, while upgrading the way they watch movies, TV shows, and other video content.

For the past 10 years, the display trend for smartphones has been a widescreen, 16:9 aspect ratio. However, in just the last few months, many phone manufacturers have started shifting to devices with an 18:9 aspect ratio, making smartphones longer and even more practical than ever before. Here’s everything you need to know about the trending 18:9 aspect ratio.

Samsung Galaxy S8 with 18:9 aspect ratio display

Why the change?

The main reasons people use cell phones have shifted from calling and texting to web browsing, and beyond. Now more than ever, phone users are watching movies, TV shows, and video on their devices. That’s where the 18:9 aspect ratio comes into play.

Twice as tall as it is wide, the 18:9 aspect ratio is likely to become the universal aspect ratio for all types of video. And it’s all based on Univisium, a film format proposed by cinematographer Vittorio Storaro and his son, Fabrizio, that’s grown in popularity in recent years – especially on Netflix. It only makes sense that smartphones will start to adopt this same aspect ratio to provide a better mobile experience.

Multitask with ease

With the 18:9 aspect ratio, you can display apps side by side.

Whether you’re using landscape or portrait mode, smartphones with an 18:9 aspect ratio make it easier to multitask. No longer will you have to constantly minimize and maximize windows when working with two apps. With 18:9, you can display apps side by side and fit more on the screen.

See more

Do you like to read ebooks on your smartphone? Are you constantly checking in on your social feeds? Good news – the 18:9 aspect ratio will only enhance your smartphone experience, especially if you’ve grown accustomed to a larger desktop or laptop screen. With the increased screen size, you’ll find it easier to see more content before having to scroll further down the page.

Get a grip

Not surprisingly, the new aspect ratio allows brands to up the size of their screens without impacting the functionality of the device itself. That means you can enjoy a better viewing experience while still being able to comfortably use your phone. It’ll just have a taller screen and slimmer bezels.

Shop Straight Talk

From the Samsung Galaxy S9 to the iPhone X, Straight Talk offers the latest smartphones with the 18:9 aspect ratio. Get your hands on one, and then pick out the right plan that gives you the data you want at a price you love.