Apple's first foldable phone, the iPhone Duo, is facing reports of apple iphone duo display cracking and durability failures shortly after its Oct. 23 release, according to CBS News and CNBC.
The reports are significant because the device represents Apple's largest bet in years and is the first major product rollout under CEO John Ternus. With prices ranging from $1,999 to $3,000, early adopters are facing high financial risks if the hardware proves unreliable.
Users report the inner screen breaking down the middle near the hinge, which creates a visible line across the display. Some owners described hearing a "pop" or "crack" noise and feeling physical resistance when attempting to open the device, according to CBS News.
One user, Roneshia Smith, told CBS News that her device cracked less than 24 hours after purchase. Another owner, Jesse Dalton, said he heard a "loud pop" and the screen snapped in the middle after he pushed past resistance while opening the phone.
Why is my iPhone Duo display cracking?
The device's folding screen is composed of an OLED panel, glass, a plastic covering, and a mechanical hinge, according to TechRadar editor at large Lance Ulanoff.
The repair firm iFixit suggests the failures may be linked to the hinge design. iFixit technician Shahram Mokhtari noted in a teardown video that the hinge is shaped differently exactly where the damage occurs.
Kyle Wiens, CEO of iFixit, stated on X that "a manufacturing variance or grain of sand can kill the fragile display panel it protects."
What are the common issues with the iPhone Duo?
Beyond the hardware failures, some reviewers have noted software limitations. While the phone runs iOS 27, reviewers reported that many third-party apps have not yet been optimized for the foldable screen, according to CNBC and CNET.
Apple has responded to these reports, with a company representative telling CNBC and CBS News: "We are aware of an issue impacting the inner display on a small number of iPhone Duo units."
Lance Ulanoff told CBS News that such a quick acknowledgment is unusual, stating, "I honestly was shocked that Apple responded and acknowledged that they had seen a small number of these things. That's not typical of Apple to do that."
How do I get a replacement for a broken iPhone Duo screen?
Apple is replacing affected devices under the AppleCare warranty. The company advised users experiencing display issues to contact AppleCare for a replacement.
For devices that are out of warranty, Apple's website lists the cost of an inner-screen repair at $999, according to CNBC.
Some users have already faced delays in getting new units. Roneshia Smith told CBS News that her device could not be fixed and required a replacement, but because the phone is backordered, she is unsure when she will receive it.
iPhone Duo price and market competition
The iPhone Duo's pricing starts at $1,999 and reaches $3,000 for higher-end models. This places it at a higher starting price than Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 8, which debuted in July for $1,900, according to CNET.
Samsung has used Apple's late entry into the market for marketing. CNET reported that Samsung released a "Slice" advertisement showing a sliced apple rolling past the Galaxy Z Fold lineup from 2019 to 2026 to mock the timing of the Duo's release.
It remains unclear if these screen failures are isolated incidents or a widespread manufacturing defect. Apple is expected to unveil a touchscreen laptop at an event in Los Angeles this week.