Apple’s newly launched foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo, is facing reports of inner-screen cracks, with a damaged hinge component possibly causing them. A YouTuber’s investigation suggests a failing hinge component may be damaging the display. However, the issue appears to affect only a small number of devices so far.
Reports of cracked iPhone Duo screens have surfaced since the device’s launch, with several users experiencing damage within hours of receiving their phones. In multiple cases, the cracks appear along the central crease before spreading horizontally toward the display edge.
YouTuber CuriousHagi investigated the problem after conducting durability tests on the device. During testing involving dirt and attempts to fold the hinge backward, the phone reportedly refused to close. When the YouTuber tried to open it again from its partially closed position, a loud snap was heard, followed by visible screen damage.
The damaged device was subsequently dismantled to identify the cause.
An inspection of the hinge revealed a component that had sheared off near the point where the screen crack originated. The part appears to connect to an upper support plate and is thinner than the hinge components positioned above and below it, potentially making it more vulnerable to breakage.
The inspection also found heavy crush marks on a nearby mechanism and what appeared to be an impact mark on the underside of the display. These findings suggest a hinge component may have failed to engage properly, broken under stress, and struck the screen.
However, no one has independently confirmed the precise cause.
Also Read: Apple Warns of Limited iPhone Duo Units in Stores on Friday
Despite reports circulating online, the problem remains limited in scale. AppleInsider contacted sources at seven Apple Store Genius Bars on October 24, including four major flagship locations. At the time, none had received an iPhone Duo for service or return due to a broken screen.
A secondary check late Sunday found one such instance across the surveyed stores.
The number of reported cases could increase as more devices reach customers, but it remains unclear whether the failure rate will rise. The available evidence does not indicate a widespread problem at this stage.
Users are advised not to deliberately bend the hinge backward, as it could damage the device and lead to costly repairs. Owners whose screens crack should report the problem directly to Apple.