{
  "id": 16567245,
  "title": "iPhone Duo 2 prototypes test Face ID as Crackgate and other complaints pile up",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/26/iphone-duo-2-prototypes-test-face-id-as-crackgate-and-other",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-10-26T05:16:40.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Gulf News",
    "slug": "gulf-news",
    "url": "https://gulfnews.com/technology/iphone-duo-2-tests-under-display-face-id-as-crackgate-and-other-complaints-pile-up-1.500723597"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Two days after its October 24 launch, the highly anticipated iPhone Duo is attracting more attention for its flaws than its features. The main complaints revolve around the unlock method, camera system limitations, and screen durability.\n\nA significant gripe is the lack of Face ID, replaced by a Touch ID fingerprint sensor in the side button. Users have found this sensor occasionally unresponsive, requiring multiple attempts to unlock the phone, especially for left-handed individuals. Despite these issues, the phone scored 4.5 stars from PCMag, praised for its hardware, performance, and battery life.\n\nAnother emerging concern is screen cracking, dubbed \"Crackgate.\" Some owners report screen damage within hours of purchase, adding a durability dilemma for a foldable at this price point. Apple has yet to address the cause, potentially pushing consumers to wait for a more robust model.\n\nA peculiar aspect of the iPhone Duo is its software implementation. Apple is reportedly testing Face ID on the Duo prototypes, hinting at a potential upgrade for subsequent models. This shift is expected within the next one to two years, possibly making the Duo's fingerprint-based unlock obsolete.\n\nThe Duo also lacks a telephoto camera, a standard feature on Apple's Pro models, and a larger display. Rumors suggest later iterations could feature a bigger screen, expanding up to 9 inches. Compared to the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro, the Duo falls short in camera capabilities, with fewer lenses and lower optical zoom.\n\nWhile the Duo remains the top foldable on the market for early adopters, potential buyers should weigh its inconsistencies and limitations. Apple is actively working on improvements, so those willing to wait might receive a more refined product in the near future.",
  "summary": "Apple’s first foldable iPhone , the iPhone Duo, went on sale on October 24, priced at Dh8499. Two days in, though, the conversation is steering away from what the phone gets right and more about what owners and reviewers want changed. The complaints fall into three main areas: How the phone unlocks, what its camera system is missing, and, in a growing number of user reports, how well its screen…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}