Apple reportedly acknowledges inner-screen defects affecting a small number of foldable iPhones and directs affected customers to AppleCare for replacements.
Apple is facing questions over the durability of its newly launched iPhone Duo after reports of inner-display failures emerged among early buyers. The company has reportedly acknowledged a hardware issue affecting a small number of devices and advised affected customers to contact AppleCare for replacements.
The controversy gained attention over the weekend after social media posts showed cracked screens, vertical lines and dead pixels near the central hinge of the foldable smartphone.
Some early buyers and technology reviewers reportedly experienced display problems after limited use, raising concerns about the device’s ability to withstand repeated folding.
In a statement addressing the issue, Apple said: “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.”
The reported replacement process is intended to provide affected customers with an alternative to conventional, multi-stage repair procedures.
However, Apple has not publicly detailed the precise manufacturing defect responsible for the reported failures. Teardown assessments and durability tests have pointed to potential stress around the hinge and folding mechanism, although the underlying cause remains unconfirmed.
The reports pose a challenge for Apple as it enters the foldable smartphone market. The device’s book-style design and complex hinge mechanism could also complicate manufacturing and limit initial supplies.
Strong demand reportedly followed the launch, with initial online orders selling out quickly. The reported display problems could therefore test consumer confidence as Apple seeks to establish itself in the foldable-device segment.
For customers, the immediate priority will be whether Apple can resolve affected units promptly and demonstrate that the issue does not extend beyond a limited number of devices.
Apple’s reported response offers a replacement route for affected buyers, but further information about the defect and its scale remains unavailable.