Next-Generation iPhone Duo 2: Revolutionary Under-Display Face ID Technology Put to the Test

Upon the unveiling of the iPhone Duo by Apple last month, it became evident that a major compromise would be the absence of Face ID — a sentiment echoed by early reviewers.

Unlocking the iPhone Duo is not the only concern. While it is inconvenient in itself, a workaround exists with the integration of an Apple Watch and the utilization of an iOS 14.5 feature introduced during the mask-wearing era of COVID. However, this workaround does not extend to tasks such as opening apps, autofilling passwords and credit cards, all of which rely on the seamless functionality of Face ID. Authentication with Touch ID by placing a finger on the side button becomes a necessary step before proceeding with these tasks.

While some users may not find this compromise to be a major issue, it will undoubtedly be a disruptive adjustment for those accustomed to the effortless operation of Face ID. Fortunately, reports suggest that this limitation may be exclusive to the initial generation of the iPhone Duo.

According to information shared by Mark Gurman of Bloomberg in his Power On podcast, Apple is currently testing prototypes for the “iPhone Duo 2” that not only incorporate Face ID but also feature under-display Face ID technology. This shift is crucial for enabling Face ID on the inner screen, which already conceals the camera beneath the display.

Gurman speculates during the podcast that one of Apple’s challenges was likely finding space for the Face ID sensors within the ultra-thin design of the iPhone Duo, which houses even more components than the previous iPhone Air model and boasts a slimmer profile. Cost considerations also likely played a role in this decision-making process.

Consistency is highlighted as a key factor by Gurman, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that Face ID functionality is uniform across both the outer and inner displays. Implementing Face ID solely on the outer display while relying on Touch ID for the inner display would create a disjointed user experience.

Thus, the development of under-display Face ID technology becomes a significant consideration. Apple evidently deemed it worthwhile to position the camera beneath the inner display, despite reported drawbacks such as its low resolution and subpar image quality. This decision was shrouded in secrecy, with the camera purportedly possessing only 4 megapixels. The rarity of this approach among phone manufacturers underscores the challenges associated with it.

For the iPhone Duo, this compromise may be deemed acceptable. The need for high-quality selfies on the inner screen is minimal, especially when users can simply utilize the main 48 MP camera by flipping the phone. The outer display camera offers a respectable 12 MP when the phone is folded closed, while the under-display camera on the inner screen primarily serves FaceTime calls with a 1080p video feed.

Reports indicate that Apple is currently in the testing phase, with no guarantee of imminent implementation. Gurman reveals that Apple has prototypes of the iPhone Duo 2 featuring an under-display Face ID sensor and camera on the outer screen, but there is no confirmation regarding a similar setup for the inner screen.

Apple is likely aiming to resolve this challenge with the next iteration of the iPhone Duo, recognizing the perceived regression associated with relying solely on Touch ID in an otherwise forward-looking device. However, Apple will only proceed with this advancement once confident in its ability to execute it effectively.

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[The information provided in this article has NOT been confirmed by Apple and may be speculation. Provided details may not be factual. Take all rumors, tech or otherwise, with a grain of salt.]