Apple Pencil support for the iPhone Duo is arriving with iOS 27.2, which is currently in beta. Apple promised it in its iPhone Duo announcement on 9 September, saying the Duo would support Apple Pencil with USB-C “later this year” for notes, sketches and document mark-up on either display.
Only one Pencil works. Apple’s iPhone Duo tech specs list support for Apple Pencil (USB-C) alone and note that hover is not supported. Owners of the first- or second-generation Apple Pencil or the Apple Pencil Pro will need to buy the USB-C model, which costs £79 in the UK and $79 in the US.
How it works in the beta
A hands-on test by MacRumors found that the Pencil pairs with the Duo over a USB-C cable rather than magnetically. Once paired, it works on both the inner and outer displays, and there is a setting for palm rejection. The Pencil can cling magnetically to the Duo’s hinge for storage, but it does not charge there.
Because it is the USB-C model, there is no pressure sensitivity, double-tap or squeeze. MacRumors also noticed the tip can leave faint lines on the folding display; in its testing they wiped off with a polishing cloth.