Apple’s newly launched iPhone Duo is facing early durability concerns after several users reported that the phone’s inner display cracked after only a handful of folds, raising questions about the reliability of the company’s first foldable smartphone.
The device, which costs around $2,000, began reaching customers on October 23, 2026. Within hours of its release, images of damaged displays started circulating online, with several affected screens showing cracks or bright lines around the central hinge.
One iPhone Duo owner in Australia claimed that the inner screen broke after fewer than 20 folds. According to the user’s account shared online, the phone had been in use for approximately six hours when they heard a cracking sound while opening it.
The display reportedly developed damage along the hinge, despite the owner saying there were no visible signs of external damage.
The customer later visited an Apple Store and received a replacement device. Other users have shared images showing similar display problems, including cracks and bright lines appearing near the folding area.
Reports have emerged from several markets, including the United States, Australia and China. However, the total number of affected devices remains unclear, and it is too early to determine whether the failures indicate a widespread manufacturing defect.
The location of the reported damage has drawn attention to the iPhone Duo’s hinge mechanism, which allows the flexible inner screen to open and close repeatedly.
A teardown by repair specialists at iFixit suggested that stress may be concentrated around part of the hinge’s central support structure. Dust and debris entering the moving hinge components could also affect its operation.
However, the precise cause of the reported screen failures has not been confirmed. A manufacturing defect, mechanical pressure or other hardware issues could potentially contribute to the problem. Apple has not publicly confirmed a widespread defect linked to the reports.
The reports are particularly concerning because of the phone’s premium price and the complexity of repairing a foldable display.
According to iFixit, replacing the iPhone Duo’s inner screen outside warranty coverage costs approximately $999. That could leave owners facing a substantial repair bill if their devices suffer damage that is not covered by Apple’s warranty or other protection plans.
Some early customers have reportedly received replacement devices, although availability may vary depending on location and stock levels. There is currently insufficient evidence to confirm that all affected customers will face months-long replacement delays.
The early reports have raised concerns among potential buyers, particularly because some failures allegedly occurred during normal use shortly after purchase.
Nevertheless, not every device has experienced the issue. Some reviewers have also tested the phone’s folding mechanism without seeing the same type of immediate screen failure.
More real-world testing and an official response from Apple will be needed to establish whether the incidents involve a limited number of defective units or a broader durability problem.
For now, the reports serve as an early warning for buyers considering the $2,000 foldable phone, while attention turns to how Apple handles replacements and whether further failures emerge.
Discover more from Scoop Hub
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
