Apple Responds to iPhone Duo Display Issues, Says They Will Replace The Devices Impacted

Apple has acknowledged that some of its first foldable iPhones are experiencing display problems and has asked affected customers to contact AppleCare for a replacement. The issue comes just days after the iPhone Duo went on sale, with reports of cracks and lines appearing on the inner screen near the hinge. Here's what we know so far.

Apple Acknowledges iPhone Duo Screen Problems

Apple started shipping the iPhone Duo last week, and the phone has already attracted a lot of attention. But, for the wrong reasons. Some early owners reported problems with the foldable phone's inner display. Over the weekend, posts on social media showed iPhone Duo units with cracks and lines running along the central hinge, where the screen folds.

Apple acknowledged the issue on Monday, October 26, saying it affects a small number of devices. The company also said that the problem tends to appear quickly after users begin using the phone.

"We are aware of an issue impacting the inner display on a small number of iPhone Duo units. If users experience issues with their iPhone Duo display, they should contact AppleCare for a replacement," Apple said in a statement according to Reuters.

Apple has not shared what could be causing the display problems or whether the issue is linked to a particular component in the phone.

Possible Cause Behind iPhone Duo Screen Cracks

While Apple has not explained what is causing the display issues, repair firm iFixit offered a possible explanation based on its analysis of the iPhone Duo's hinge.

The company used teardown footage, patents and CT scans to build a 3D simulation of the foldable phone's hinge. It then compared the simulation with the locations where users have reported screen damage.

According to iFixit, the reported damage appears to cluster just below the point where a display cable runs underneath the screen, near a central support bar. The company believes the bar may not move out of the display's way properly when the phone is folded.

This could create a small stress point near the area where the screen is reportedly cracking. However, iFixit's findings are based on simulations and reported damage locations, and they do not establish a confirmed cause for every affected iPhone Duo.

Apple has not immediately commented on the findings.

Interestingly, iFixit also concluded that the iPhone Duo is the most repairable foldable phone it has tested. This is worth noting given the high repair costs associated with the device.

As we reported earlier, replacing the inner display in India costs Rs. 1,49,900, while other repairs can also be expensive. Read more about the same here.

What are your thoughts on the iPhone Duo and did you happen to pick one up? Let us know and keep watching this space for more such updates.