![iPhone Duo 2 Face ID Upgrade Faces Tight Design Deadline [Report]](/cdn-cgi/image/onerror=redirect,width=640,height=640,format=webp/https://storage.googleapis.com/uploads.mongoosehq.com/url/media/200192485/29d2aab68660fda24519357b61eb0315076167e7d6b2ba981330514a10207f9a)
Overview
- Nov. 15 reports from multiple outlets say Apple has built V78 iPhone Duo prototypes that put Face ID on the outer display, but the company may not finish the work in time for the late‑2027 refresh.
- Engineers face a specific hardware challenge: the VCSEL, the infrared light emitter used for Face ID, must be integrated into the outer panel without degrading the hinge, display or durability.
- Apple is prioritizing three other upgrades for the next Duo cycle: an Action Button, a dedicated telephoto camera and a thinner, lighter chassis, while decisions about Face ID remain unsettled.
- The Duo launch saw strong demand, constrained supply and early reports of inner‑display cracks near the hinge, which have tightened testing schedules and limited spare parts for replacements.
- If Face ID slips to a later Duo 3 release, customers may wait longer for facial unlocking on the foldable and Apple will need more test cycles to ensure VCSEL placement does not worsen hinge or display reliability.