TECHNOLOGY
Initial buyers of the iPhone Duo are experiencing display damage believed to stem from hinge defects.
Buyers of Apple’s first foldable device, the iPhone Duo, are reporting inner display damage possibly related to a malfunctioning hinge. Users have shared their experiences online, particularly on Reddit and other forums, detailing how vertical and horizontal lines emerged on their screens after encountering stiffness in the hinge.
Several users noted that the damage occurred shortly after purchase. One Australian owner reported their display cracked after about six hours and fewer than 20 uses. They described feeling something beneath the screen while opening the device when they heard a crack. Many affected users say there were no visible marks indicating any external damage.
The display failures appear similar, with damage commonly concentrated around the hinge area. Some pictures shared on social media show lines of bright pixels across the screens. Reports suggest several early purchasers, experienced with foldable devices, encountered these issues without tampering with their phones.
Apple has acknowledged the problem and offered replacements but has faced challenges due to limited stock, especially for higher storage models like the 1TB and 2TB variants. One user received a replacement at an Apple Store, expressing satisfaction with the service despite the inconvenience of visiting the store shortly after the device launch.
While Apple has not yet pinpointed the exact cause of the failures, many users and analysts speculate the issue might stem from a defective hinge component. Observations indicate that some users should be cautious about how they handle the phone while folding and unfolding it, although no official guidance has been provided by Apple.
The scale of this issue remains uncertain, as most other users have reported no problems. Initial reports suggest the potential for a limited batch of faulty devices, as some reviewers who tested the phone extensively have not encountered any damage.
Those experiencing display issues have been encouraged to contact Apple support to seek replacements. The situation is under close scrutiny as more users continue to share their experiences online.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Readhis insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.