Apple to Address iPhone Duo Gaps with Face ID and Telephoto in Future Models

Key points

• The iPhone Duo lacks Face ID, a telephoto lens, and a physical Action Button, features present in the older iPhone 15 Pro.
• Mark Gurman reports Apple is testing prototypes of the iPhone Duo 2 with an under-display Face ID sensor on the outer screen.
• A telephoto lens is on Apple's roadmap but faces physical depth constraints; no timeline is confirmed.
• The iPhone Duo 3, expected in 2028, may feature a slightly larger inner screen, increasing by roughly half an inch.
• Apple Watch users can currently bypass Touch ID limitations using the 'Unlock with Apple Watch' feature.

Background

The iPhone Duo launched on October 23, 2026, amid supply constraints and early reports of hinge-related screen cracks. Previous coverage noted that Apple faced severe manufacturing challenges, leading to delayed deliveries and compensation for pre-orderers. The device's high price point has drawn scrutiny for missing standard features found in older flagship models.

How outlets are covering it

PhoneArena and PCMag highlight the negative reception of the iPhone Duo, with reviewers and tech figures like Carl Pei and MKBHD calling it a 'waste of money' due to missing features. PCMag's Eric Zeman noted that while the hardware performance is strong, the Touch ID sensor is frustrating to use. MacRumors offers a practical workaround, suggesting that Apple Watch users can use 'Unlock with Apple Watch' to avoid the side-button Touch ID entirely. 9to5Mac provides specific details from Mark Gurman, clarifying that the future screen size increase will be marginal (high 7s to low 8s inches) rather than a jump to 8.5 or 9 inches, and confirms that the telephoto omission is due to physics, not cost.

Why it matters

The feedback on the iPhone Duo signals that Apple's first foldable may not meet the expectations set by its price tag. The confirmed roadmap for Face ID and a telephoto lens suggests Apple is committed to iterating quickly to address these gaps. For consumers, the current lack of these features may make the device less appealing compared to competitors like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Pixel 11 Pro Fold, which include both features. The upcoming changes could define the success of Apple's foldable strategy in the coming years.

What to watch

Apple is expected to release the iPhone Duo 2 in the next fall, potentially featuring Face ID. The iPhone Duo 3 is anticipated in 2028 with a slightly larger screen. Apple is also exploring ways to integrate an Action Button, though Gurman is less confident about this addition. The telephoto lens remains a long-term goal, contingent on solving physical depth issues.