The void fraction covariance, which accounts for non-uniformity in the void fraction distribution in the one-dimensional two-fluid model, has been shown to be critical for accurate prediction of the area averaged interfacial drag force. Defined as the ratio of area-averaged square of void fraction to the square of the area-averaged void fraction, the void fraction covariance, which historically has been treated as unity, is analyzed for gas-dispersed flows undergoing phase change. The covariance is shown to be very large in subcooled boiling where the void fraction is highly non-uniform, which highlights the benefit of the bubble layer thickness averaged two-fluid model. In condensing and flashing flow the void fraction covariance is shown to be significant, having a very large impact on the interfacial drag force as the void fraction increases. The void fraction covariance is studied for its impact on the classical area-averaged two-fluid model, bubble-layer averaged two-fluid model, and area-averaged multiple bubble group two-fluid model. A simple set of correlations are proposed for easy implementation into the existing drag equations, and are shown to agree very well with experimental data. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.