Apple is reportedly testing Face ID on the outer display of iPhone Duo 2 prototypes, potentially allowing the foldable to be unlocked with facial recognition while closed. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reports that Apple has yet to decide whether the system will make it into the commercial model.
The first iPhone Duo uses a Touch ID sensor built into its side button, according to Apple’s specifications. Adding Face ID to the outer screen would restore the face-unlock option familiar to users of other recent iPhones, although it is unclear whether Apple would retain the fingerprint reader on the second-generation device.
Known internally as V78, the iPhone Duo 2 is expected in fall 2027. Apple is also said to be evaluating several other hardware changes for future Duo models:
- An Action button, potentially combined with the Camera Control button.
- A telephoto camera.
- A thinner and lighter chassis.
None of those changes, including Face ID, has been confirmed for the iPhone Duo 2. An unverified image claiming to show the successor with three rear cameras has also circulated online, but its authenticity has not been established. The key question is whether Apple can finalize Face ID for the outer display in time for the 2027 model.
