MKBHD does not think most people looking for a new iPhone should buy the iPhone Duo. His launch review points to unfinished app support and a slower-feeling unlock experience as reasons ordinary users may want to hold off.
That verdict comes with an important qualification: Marques Brownlee still finds Apple’s first folding iPhone enjoyable. His review, iPhone Duo Review: First Generation Fun!, describes a device whose appeal is strongest for enthusiasts willing to accept early compromises.
Apps are still catching up
Brownlee’s biggest software concern is that many familiar third-party apps were not properly adapted when he recorded the review. Some layouts leave unused space, while others make limited use of the larger unfolded display.
He highlights apps such as Spotify, Google Maps and Discord. The issue is especially relevant to a foldable: buying a larger screen delivers less benefit if everyday software still behaves like a conventional phone app.
App support is already changing. WIRED’s separate launch review reported that several apps received Duo updates during its testing. Brownlee’s examples should therefore be understood as a snapshot of his review period, rather than a permanent compatibility list or a promise about future updates.
Touch ID has a pause he dislikes
Apple confirms that Duo uses Touch ID in the side button. In Brownlee’s experience, holding a registered finger on it leaves the phone on the lock screen briefly before unlocking, allowing time to view notifications.
He criticises that deliberate pause and says he did not find a way to disable it during his review. That describes his tested experience; it does not establish that every software version or settings combination will behave identically.
Fun hardware, with trade-offs
Brownlee praises the display, hinge and polished animations, but also raises concerns about weight and camera compromises. For someone expecting the strongest iPhone camera system simply because Duo is the expensive new model, his recommendation is cautious.
The distinction is between wanting a new iPhone and specifically wanting an iPhone that unfolds. Enthusiasts who value the pocketable large screen and side-by-side apps may enjoy it, while people mainly messaging, browsing and using social media have less reason to accept the compromises.
For Malaysian readers considering a purchase, the useful takeaway from his review is to check how your own essential apps work on the current software before deciding. His verdict is a reviewer’s assessment of the launch experience, rather than a claim that the product has no audience.
Image: Apple Newsroom.
Sources: Mdroid, MKBHD’s full review (buying verdict from approximately 26:31), Apple and WIRED.
