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Doubts Raised Over iPhone Fold Screen Cracking Issue

Devices2 min read

Some foldable iPhone Duo phones have cracked or broken screens in the same spot, which has raised fears of a bigger, system-wide defect. Apple says it knows about the problem but has not explained the cause or how many phones are affected.

What happened

Some owners say their iPhone Duo screens developed bright lines after only a few uses. One buyer in Dallas heard a loud "pop" when he folded the phone. A second owner in Melbourne, Australia, had the same problem after about six hours of use. Many similar reports have appeared in online forums such as Reddit and X. Apple told CNBC that it knows about a problem affecting the inside screen of a small number of iPhone Duo phones. It did not say how many phones are affected, what causes the problem, or whether it will recall them.

Key facts

  • The phone in Dallas cost $2,000 and was bought on October 23.
  • The owner in Dallas had used the phone only about 4 to 5 times before the screen failed.
  • Apple made its statement to CNBC on October 26.
  • Apple has not said how many iPhone Duo phones are affected.

What experts think

Shahram Mokhtari, a repair expert at iFixit, took the phone apart. He thinks a weak spot in the hinge may press on tiny electronic parts under the screen. Trapped debris or a factory defect in the hinge could damage the screen. Francisco Jeronimo of the research firm IDC said the hinge or the way the screen is supported when folding may be too sensitive. Samsung's first foldable phone in 2019 also had screen problems and its launch was delayed.

Why it matters

Foldable phones are new and fragile, so a screen defect could hurt trust in Apple's first model of this type. A report from JW Insights, citing a Foxconn worker, says Apple may have lowered some quality checks to keep up with supply. These claims have not been confirmed by Apple. If true, more faulty phones could reach buyers.

What to watch

  • Whether Apple announces a recall or a repair program.
  • How many phones are affected and what the official cause is.
  • Whether Apple changes its quality checks or the hinge design.
  • Whether the problem slows production or sales of the iPhone Duo.

Glossary

iPhone Duo
A foldable iPhone that opens and closes like a book, made by Apple.
Apple
A US technology company that makes iPhones, Macs and other devices.
iFixit
A company that repairs electronic devices and shares guides on how to fix them.
IDC
A research firm that studies technology markets and sales.
Foxconn
A large company in China that assembles many Apple products.

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