Full Breakdown
iPhone Duo Gains Apple Pencil Support in iOS 27.2 Beta
By Drooid · · How we work
New Apple Pencil Compatibility
Apple is adding support for the USB-C Apple Pencil in the upcoming iOS 27.2 release, which is presently available as a beta. The iPhone Duo will work only with this USB-C model; earlier generations—including the Apple Pencil 1, Apple Pencil 2, and Apple Pencil Pro—are incompatible.
How to Pair and Store the Pencil
Pairing requires connecting the USB-C Apple Pencil to the Duo with a USB-C cable, unlike the magnetic attachment used on iPads. After pairing, the Pencil can be magnetically clipped to the hinge for convenient storage, but it does not charge through that magnetic connection. Apple lists the USB-C Pencil at $79, while Amazon offers the same device for $69.
Functionality and Limitations
Once paired, the Pencil functions on both the inner and outer displays, supporting handwriting, sketching, and a palm-rejection setting. However, it lacks the pressure-sensitivity, double-tap, and squeeze gestures found in the Apple Pencil Pro. The tip can leave faint lines on the Duo’s screen; these marks are removable with a polishing cloth, and permanent damage is considered unlikely.
Cost-Benefit Assessment
For users who already own an iPad-compatible Pencil, the need to purchase a separate USB-C model may be a deterrent. Dan Barbera, a videographer for MacRumors, notes that while the Pencil enables note-taking and quick sketches, the limited screen size of the Duo reduces its overall utility compared with an iPad. If the display does become scratched, Apple offers a cover-layer replacement for $19 with AppleCare+ or $49 without coverage.
Overall, the iPhone Duo’s new Pencil support expands its creative capabilities, but the requirement for a distinct, less feature-rich Pencil and the additional expense may limit widespread adoption.