Appreciating Face ID After Using the iPhone Duo: Frustration With Not Being Able to See Notifications While Left on a Charging Stand

A reviewer misses Face ID

Apple's new folding smartphone, the iPhone Duo, has just gone on sale. The writer says the more he uses it, the more he misses Face ID. The iPhone Duo only uses Touch ID, which is built into the side button, for fingerprint login. Face ID is the face-scanning system that unlocks the phone and approves Apple Pay payments.

Why Face ID matters day to day

Face ID works by looking at your face, so you do not have to touch anything. The writer says that when he picks up his phone and expects it to unlock, pressing a button feels slow and annoying. Apple Watch can unlock an iPhone too, but only if you wear it. When the phone is in your hand, you have to press Touch ID with your finger. The writer says this feels like a hassle.

Key facts from the review

• The iPhone Duo has no Face ID. Its only biometric login is Touch ID on the side button.
• Face ID is used for unlocking the phone and for approving Apple Pay payments.
• The writer tested the phone for a while and wrote down his impressions.

Why this matters

The writer says he is not saying the iPhone Duo is bad. Many apps have been updated, and the phone is easy to use, even for a new device. Still, the lack of Face ID changes daily habits. For people who value quick, hands-free unlocking, this is a real trade-off to think about before buying.

What to watch

• Whether more users complain about missing Face ID when using the phone on a charging stand.
• How well Touch ID works in everyday use compared with Face ID.
• Whether Apple adds Face ID to future folding iPhones.