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Reviewer says iPhone Duo quirks do not undermine first-day experience

A 9to5Mac reviewer says one day after picking up an iPhone Duo at Apple Fifth Avenue that Touch ID, the under-display FaceTime camera and app support are manageable compromises, while the outside screen and software experience make the phone a full experience.

AI News Feed · 2026-10-25 03:39

In the report, the reviewer wrote that Touch ID requires a learning curve but does not feel like a struggle. The under-display FaceTime camera is worse than a conventional camera, according to the report, but looks fine in good lighting, especially over video calls. The reviewer contrasted the device with last year’s iPhone Air, which the reviewer said required compromises on speaker quality, rear camera and battery life; with iPhone Duo, the reviewer did not feel he was giving up anything that really mattered.

The reviewer disputed early criticism of app support, saying many early reviewers noted that apps were not yet updated while overlooking that most developers planned releases for when consumers would have devices. More apps have been updated for iPhone Duo in the past couple days, according to the report.

The outside screen is worth using and not an afterthought, the reviewer wrote. It is smaller and shows less than a taller display, but the keyboard remains full width and the experience feels more focused.

The reviewer identified two software issues that could be improved. iOS still allows back swipe only from the left edge of the device, which the reviewer said feels in conflict with navigation elements on the right side; the reviewer found himself trying to back swipe from the right edge and said allowing that would be a nice adjustment. Apple Watch unlock works well and makes the loss of Face ID less of a pain, but it means anyone handed the device can unlock it; the reviewer suggested combining basic camera-based facial recognition with Apple Watch unlock.

The reviewer said he was happy with iPhone Duo and had been stopped in public by people asking about the phone more than with any previous iPhone, calling it a fun phone.

The reviewer also criticized Apple’s official folio case for iPhone Duo. At $129, the kickstand does not feel strong, and the front flap creates an awkward situation when taking photos using the outside display; it cannot be flipped around the back because that would cover the camera, so it has to be left floating. The reviewer recommended skipping the case and waiting for third-party alternatives.