Apple is reportedly testing Face ID for its next-generation foldable iPhone, potentially addressing one of the biggest complaints about the first iPhone Duo. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple is developing iPhone Duo 2 prototypes with Face ID sensors positioned beneath the outer display. The development suggests that Apple wants to bring its familiar facial recognition system to its foldable lineup without compromising the device’s slim design. However, the feature is not confirmed for the final product, and it could arrive later if development takes longer than expected.
Apple Tests Face ID for iPhone Duo 2
In a report in Gurman’s Power On podcast, which revealed that Apple is testing iPhone Duo 2 prototypes featuring under-display Face ID technology. The reported design places the Face ID sensor system beneath the phone’s outer screen.
This would be a significant change from the first-generation iPhone Duo, which uses Touch ID integrated into its power button instead of Face ID.
The original device’s thin construction appears to be a major reason behind this decision. Face ID requires dedicated infrared sensing hardware, making it difficult to fit into a particularly slim foldable phone.
Apple has reportedly been working to reduce the size and visibility of these components. Under-display infrared camera technology could help the company integrate facial recognition while keeping the screen design cleaner.
Why Face ID Matters for Apple’s Foldable iPhone
Face ID has been a familiar part of the iPhone experience since the iPhone X launched in 2017. It allows users to unlock their phones, authenticate purchases, and access supported apps simply by looking at the device.
Switching to Touch ID on the first iPhone Duo represents a noticeable change for users upgrading from recent flagship iPhones. Although fingerprint authentication remains practical, some users may prefer the convenience of facial recognition.
Adding Face ID to the iPhone Duo 2 could make the experience more consistent with Apple’s traditional iPhone models. It could also reduce the need to reach for the side-mounted fingerprint sensor during everyday use.
However, Apple has not confirmed whether the second-generation foldable will retain Touch ID alongside Face ID or completely replace it.
Could iPhone Duo 2 Also Get an Action Button?
Face ID is not the only possible hardware change being explored. According to the same report, Apple employees have also been investigating ways to bring the Action button to a future iPhone Duo model.
The Action button is available on several conventional iPhone models and can be configured for shortcuts and other functions. Its addition could give users more control over commonly used features.
However, Gurman appears less certain about the Action button than the Face ID development. Neither feature has been officially confirmed for the next-generation device.
iPhone Duo 2 Release Date and Expectations
Apple is expected to continue developing its foldable lineup following the first iPhone Duo. The second-generation model could arrive as early as next year, but the reported prototypes do not guarantee that Face ID will be ready for launch.
If Apple cannot complete the technology in time, the feature could be delayed until the iPhone Duo 3.
For now, under-display Face ID remains a reported development rather than a confirmed specification. More details about Apple’s plans should emerge as the next-generation foldable moves further through development.
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