Apple responds to reports of cracked inner displays on the iPhone Duo
Some owners of Apple's new foldable iPhone Duo say the inner screen has cracked along the hinge just three days after launch. Apple acknowledges an issue affecting a small number of units and tells affected users to contact AppleCare for a replacement.
Apple has responded to user complaints about damaged inner displays on its new foldable phone, the iPhone Duo. Several owners report that the screen has cracked along the hinge, even though the device has been on sale for only three days. Ars Technica and other outlets have reported on the complaints.
In a statement published by 9to5Mac, Apple said it is aware of an issue affecting the inner display on a small number of iPhone Duo units. The company urged affected users to contact AppleCare, its customer support and service arm, for a replacement. The exact number of affected units has not been disclosed.
What the damage looks like
The fault appears to stem from a defective inner hinge that is easily damaged. When the phone is unfolded, a series of bright lines runs along the middle of the display. Some units also show dead pixels along the crease.
On X, user Mike Rundle said he had seen seven photos and multiple TikTok videos showing the same defect. In his view, a faulty part in the hinge puts pressure on the screen and makes it break.
What is known from testing
Hinge problems are fairly common among foldable phones, but they do not usually emerge so soon after a product's launch. Engadget has asked Apple for specifics and for clarification on how many units are affected, and says it will update its report when it learns more.
Engadget confirmed that its own review unit was not affected. The same applies to a Duo obtained by CNET. Separately, a unit on which hinge strength is being tested has so far completed more than 55,000 folds successfully.
