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The Future of Biometrics: Apple’s Path to Reintroducing Face ID on Foldables
The debut of the iPhone Duo has been met with widespread acclaim, particularly regarding the device’s refined build quality and sophisticated hinge mechanics. Yet, despite the hardware triumphs, a significant point of contention remains: the absence of Face ID.
To accommodate the unique form factor of its first foldable, Apple opted to integrate a Touch ID fingerprint scanner directly into the side power button. While functional, this shift away from the company’s signature facial recognition technology has been a sticking point for power users. Fortunately, internal developments suggest that the next iteration of the foldable lineup may rectify this limitation.
Bridging the Gap: Under-Display Technology
Recent reports indicate that Apple is actively prototyping the iPhone Duo 2 with an integrated under-display Face ID module. This transition is not merely a rumor; it aligns with broader industry trends where manufacturers are striving to eliminate notches and cutouts entirely to achieve a truly seamless, edge-to-edge display experience.
Industry analysts, including Mark Gurman of Bloomberg, have highlighted that this technology is currently in the testing phase. The push for under-display biometrics is gaining momentum, especially as rumors circulate regarding the 20th-anniversary iPhone, which is widely expected to debut similar hidden sensor technology. By moving the sensor beneath the screen, Apple could potentially offer the convenience of Face ID without sacrificing the expansive screen real estate that makes the iPhone Duo so appealing.
What to Expect in Upcoming Generations
During a recent episode of the PowerOn podcast, Gurman noted that Apple’s R&D teams are already evaluating a suite of upgrades for both the second and third generations of the iPhone Duo. The primary objective is to restore the high-security, hands-free authentication that users have come to expect from the flagship ecosystem.
While the current Touch ID solution serves as a reliable stopgap, the integration of under-display Face ID would represent a major leap forward in user experience. As the foldable market matures-with global shipments of foldable devices projected to grow significantly by 2026-Apple’s ability to harmonize its premium security features with its innovative hardware will be the deciding factor in maintaining its competitive edge.
