I Returned My iPhone Duo

I recently traded my iPhone Duo for an iPhone 18 Pro Max and would like to share my experience with the Duo before making the switch. I've been an iPhone user since 2008, and over the years, I've observed the increasing screen sizes and the removal of the home button, but the overall form factor has remained consistent. Despite initial excitement about the Duo's uniqueness, I found several drawbacks that ultimately led to my decision to return it.

One of the main reasons I returned the Duo was the lack of Face ID, which I found to be incredibly convenient and seamless. Touch ID, while functional, felt like a step backward, especially when the Duo was unfolded and the Touch ID sensor's position was unclear. Additionally, the small screen size felt cramped and heavy, making it uncomfortable to hold for extended periods.

Another issue I encountered was the compatibility of apps with the Duo's form factor. While some apps adapted well, like the Clock app, many others struggled to utilize the extra space effectively. For instance, Instagram and X (Twitter) displayed subpar layouts, with stretched phone interfaces and limited use of the Duo's capabilities. Even Apple's own apps, such as Messages and Mail, didn't max out the Duo's potential, failing to offer a significantly better experience compared to their compact counterparts.

Despite these challenges, I did appreciate the Duo's unique features, such as its matte finish and the Replays interface, which changed based on the device's pose. However, the overall experience was hindered by the absence of Face ID and the need for significant app adaptations to fully leverage the Duo's capabilities.

In conclusion, the Duo is an impressive device with a solid build and a fun user experience. However, the lack of Face ID and the difficulties in adapting apps to the form factor make it less appealing for me in its current state. My partner, on the other hand, loves the Duo, and I encourage potential buyers to consider their individual needs and preferences before making a decision. Nonetheless, I highly recommend checking out Personal Best, an app I developed for the Duo, to experience its unique features firsthand.