Industry Odisha Bureau, Oct 27: Apple has acknowledged reports of inner-screen damage affecting a small number of its newly launched iPhone Duo foldable phones and is offering replacements to customers experiencing the problem.
The complaints surfaced on social media within days of the device reaching buyers. Images shared online showed cracks and lines developing around the central hinge. Meanwhile, some users even reported damages shortly after first using the phone.
Apple confirmed the issue on Monday. The company said that a small number of iPhone Duo units had been affected. The company has not yet publicly identified the cause of the display failures.
An investigation by repair specialists at iFixit has pointed to a possible problem inside the hinge mechanism. Based on teardown footage, patents and CT scans, the team created a 3D simulation suggesting that a central support bar could be placing excess pressure on the display if it fails to move out of the way when the phone folds. This pressure may create a weak point near a display cable, eventually causing cracks.
However, Apple has not yet confirmed whether this mechanism is responsible for the reported damage.
The company has advised affected customers to contact AppleCare to arrange a replacement. According to the report, buyers do not need an active AppleCare+ subscription to qualify for a replacement for this specific manufacturing defect. Customers who purchased the device through mobile carriers are also advised to contact Apple directly.
IDC vice-president Francisco Jeronimo described the swift replacement offer as an appropriate first step, noting that a prompt response can help limit reputational damage.
