Apple Pencil support delayed for new iPhone Duo until iOS 27.2
The foldable phone's stylus functionality is arriving next week, but fast charging and specific hardware requirements add to the initial setup costs for early buyers.
By Elijah Fitzgerald ·
Apple’s first foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo, is officially on sale, but full stylus support will not activate until the iOS 27.2 update arrives next week. This delay means early adopters will need to wait a few days before they can use the Apple Pencil (USB-C) to write notes or sketch on the device's inner and outer displays. Apple stated that the input design was modeled after the proportions of a standard A-series paper notebook. The compatible stylus is currently listed at $69, a reduction from its previous price of $79.
Powering the device requires specific hardware to achieve its fastest charging speeds. The iPhone Duo can reach a 50 percent charge in approximately 20 minutes, but this performance is contingent on using a suitable power adapter. The phone ships with a USB-C cable but does not include a charger in the box. While many households possess 20W adapters, tech reviewers suggest the Apple 40W Dynamic Power Adapter with 60W Max, which is priced at $34. An alternative is the Anker 100W USB-C charger with a five-foot cable, available for $29.
For users who rely on mobile navigation, magnetic car mounts provide a practical solution. The ESR MagSafe Car Mount, which clips to air vents, is available for $19. This accessory allows drivers to use CarPlay, displaying maps on the vehicle's screen while the phone shows step-by-step directions. The larger screen of the foldable phone is expected to improve the visibility of these navigation prompts.
Protection options for the new device vary in price and feature sets. Third-party manufacturers offer the SPIDERCASE Magnetic Case with a built-in stand and screen protector for $29, and the Spigen Ultra Hybrid Pro clear MagSafe-compatible case for $39. Apple provides two in-house options: the iPhone Duo Case at $79 and the iPhone Duo Folio with Kickstand at $129.
The new operating system also enhances the StandBy mode. When the phone is propped upright, it can display various views without being connected to a charger. Two specific modes, Home Camera and Home Modular, allow users to monitor smart home accessories. To utilize the Home Camera feature effectively, security camera hardware is required. Recommended HomeKit-compatible devices include the Aqara G100 2K camera at $39 and a eufy 4K camera at $69.
Audio accessories remain a popular add-on for the new launch. AirPods Pro 3 are currently available on Amazon for $199, a discount from their standard price of $249. These earbuds are recommended for users without current AirPods or those using older models, with specific praise given to their noise cancellation capabilities for maintaining focus in work environments.
