I Returned My iPhone Duo
Apple’s first-generation foldable iPhone Duo is polarizing early adopters, with some returning it over the lack of Face ID, awkwardly placed Touch ID, and immature app support, while others say the larger inner screen has transformed how they read, work, and commute. Commenters debate whether foldables solve real problems or are an overhyped niche, weighing durability concerns, ergonomics, and lifestyle fit against the appeal of carrying one device that can act as both phone and tablet. There is broad expectation that software and hardware will improve in future revisions, but also a recurring warning not to buy Apple’s first-generation products.
Biometrics and Unlock Experience
- Strong split between people who prefer Touch ID and those who prefer Face ID; several want both.
- On Duo specifically, many find the side-mounted Touch ID awkward: changing position with orientations, interfering with normal grip, and hurting muscle memory.
- Some argue Apple should adopt under-display fingerprint sensors; others say most such sensors (esp. on Android) are unreliable or finicky in real-world conditions.
- Face ID is praised for hands-free use (e.g., with helmet and gloves), but criticized for angle sensitivity and problems with sunglasses, winter clothing, or masks.
- There is mention of Face ID settings that improve performance with masks/sunglasses, with questions about their security implications.
Form Factor, Screen Use, and Lifestyle Fit
- Several Duo owners say they love the device: short outer screen for quick tasks, large inner screen for reading, maps, media, remote desktop, and “agentic”/AI workflows.
- Others find the “which screen do I use?” decision fatiguing and dislike the cramped outer display for extended use.
- Some report the device is almost always used open; closed mode is mostly for quick pocket interactions.
- The wide aspect ratio makes vertical “reels” content less appealing and exposes heavy compression artifacts, which some consider a feature (less temptation).
- One-hand scenarios (e.g., holding a baby) are cited as a reason the Duo wouldn’t work for everyone; lifestyle and commuting patterns are seen as key determinants.
App Support and Developer Side
- Concern that many iOS apps are not yet responsive to Duo’s layout; some are partially broken when open.
- Some expect Apple to eventually require proper Duo support (e.g., separate screenshots, review enforcement); skeptics point to long-standing iPad apps that still run in phone mode (e.g., WhatsApp).
- A few developers are already adapting their apps, sometimes with LLM assistance, but admit the UX is still rough.
First-Gen Hardware and Defects
- Multiple comments advise avoiding first-generation Apple hardware, citing reports of early Duo defects (e.g., screen cracks).
- Others dismiss the risk as statistically low and note Apple’s willingness to replace defective units.
Returns, Consumer Behavior, and Ethics
- Wide variation in attitudes toward returning non-defective devices:
- Some treat the first weeks as a trial period and see returns as rational given astroturfed reviews.
- Others almost never return items, seeing it as wasteful or unfair to subsequent buyers who may receive used goods as “new.”
- EU/UK 14‑day return rules are discussed: allowed to open and test functionality but not to “use” extensively; depreciation can be deducted.
- Some note that big companies factor return rates into pricing and refurbish devices; others still feel discomfort or “personal responsibility” around returns.
- Socioeconomic angles appear: different attachments to money, empathy for future buyers, and learned habits from regions where returns were historically difficult.
Demand for Foldables and Ecosystem Lock-In
- Debate over whether anyone really wants foldables:
- Critics compare them to VR headsets—expensive and niche.
- Supporters counter with strong preorders and note Samsung’s many foldable generations as evidence of market demand.
- Several users say they stayed with Apple rather than Android foldables due to ecosystem conveniences and perceived build/screen quality.
- Some find Duo transformative enough to replace both a regular iPhone and a small tablet; others are happy with a phone + iPad combo and plan to wait for later Duo revisions.