Designing Mobile Apps for One‑Handed Use: Tips and Solutions

Preface

Early smartphones had screens as small as 3.2 inches, but today the mainstream size ranges from 4.7 to 6.4 inches. The larger screens make some areas hard to reach when users operate the device with one hand, so designers must consider this user experience.

One‑Handed Operation

Research shows that 49% of users hold the phone with one hand, 36% hold it with one hand while using the other to operate, and 15% use both hands. Among one‑handed users, 67% use their right thumb and 33% use their left thumb, leading to difficulty reaching certain screen zones.

Right‑hand operation difficulty levels

Apple and Android Solutions for One‑Handed Use

To address one‑handed challenges on large‑screen phones, Apple and some Android manufacturers provide built‑in solutions. iPhone 8 and earlier can enter one‑handed mode by double‑tapping the Home button. iPhone X and later require enabling the “Reachability” feature in Settings and then swiping down from the bottom of the screen. Android devices typically offer a one‑handed mode toggle in the system settings.

iPhone X one‑handed mode

Android one‑handed mode

Impact of One‑Handed Use on Design

Since 67% of one‑handed users operate with their right thumb, designers should prioritize the right‑hand reachable area. Users browse mobile content left‑to‑right and top‑to‑bottom, so placing primary content in the upper‑left region and interactive elements in the lower‑right region aligns with natural reading and interaction patterns.

User browsing habits on phones

Common buttons placed on the right or bottom

Important buttons should be positioned at the far right when multiple buttons are displayed

Conclusion

Early smartphones did not consider one‑handed user experience, but as devices evolved, manufacturers introduced one‑handed modes. Apps should also adapt to users' browsing and interaction habits to optimize one‑handed usability, making phone operation more friendly and improving overall quality of life.