Apple Confirms iPhone Duo Inner Screen Cracking Issue, Offers Replacements
Apple has confirmed that a small number of iPhone Duo units are experiencing problems with the inner foldable display, following user reports of cracks appearing along the center hinge area shortly after launch.
The iPhone Duo, Apple’s first foldable iPhone, recently went on sale, and early interest in the device has been strong. However, some owners began sharing images and complaints online over the weekend, claiming that the inner screen had cracked down the middle where the device folds.
According to multiple user reports, the damage appears in a similar location across affected devices, typically running vertically along the hinge. Some users also described a bright horizontal line or stuck pixels appearing on the display. In certain cases, the problem reportedly showed up within hours of unboxing the phone, while others said the crack appeared during the initial setup process.
Apple says the issue affects only a limited number of units. The company has advised any iPhone Duo owner who notices cracks, display lines, stuck pixels, or other inner screen problems to contact AppleCare for a replacement.
Importantly, customers do not need an AppleCare+ plan to receive support for this specific display issue. Apple is treating the problem separately from accidental damage coverage, meaning eligible affected devices can be replaced through AppleCare even without the paid protection plan.
Customers who purchased the iPhone Duo through a mobile carrier are also being told to contact AppleCare directly instead of going through their carrier. Some users have reportedly already received replacement devices at Apple Stores, though replacement availability may depend on local stock.
The exact cause of the iPhone Duo screen cracking issue has not yet been confirmed. Early repair analysis has pointed to possible pressure points around the hinge mechanism. One area of concern is a central support structure that may not fully retract when the device is closed. If that happens, it could place extra stress on the flexible inner display and potentially cause cracking.
Other hinge-related components may also be involved, but no definitive explanation has been provided so far. Apple has not said whether the issue is linked to manufacturing, design tolerances, assembly problems, or a specific batch of devices.
The company has also not revealed how many iPhone Duo units are affected or whether it plans to make any hardware changes in future production runs.
For now, iPhone Duo owners should inspect the inner display carefully, especially around the hinge area. Any signs of cracking, unusual lines, flickering, stuck pixels, or display distortion should be reported to AppleCare as soon as possible.
While the issue appears to be limited, it is an important early test for Apple’s first foldable iPhone. Foldable smartphones rely heavily on hinge durability and flexible display reliability, and even small defects can quickly attract attention from buyers.
Apple says early response to the iPhone Duo has been positive overall, with developers already updating apps to support the foldable design. Still, the company’s quick replacement policy suggests it is taking the display complaints seriously as more users begin receiving their devices.
