SAN FRANCISCO: Apple has offered to replace affected units of its first foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo, after reports emerged of problems with the device’s inner display.
According to Reuters, Apple acknowledged the issue on Monday, October 26, saying that a small number of iPhone Duo units had experienced display problems. The company advised customers facing screen issues to contact AppleCare to arrange a replacement.
Cracks and Lines Reported on Inner Display
Images shared on social media over the weekend showed cracks and lines on the inner screens of some iPhone Duo devices. The reported damage appeared near the central hinge, where the phone folds.
Apple has not yet clarified what is causing the display problems. The company has also not disclosed the exact number of affected devices.
Strong Initial Demand for Apple’s Foldable Phone
Apple began shipping the iPhone Duo last week, and initial online orders sold out within minutes as demand outpaced available supplies.
Analysts have suggested that the device’s complex design could create manufacturing challenges and limit availability. The phone folds like a booklet, making its construction more complicated than that of a conventional smartphone.
iFixit Examines Possible Causes
iFixit, a company known for its electronics teardown reports and repair guides, has examined the device’s internal design to investigate the reported damage.
The company used teardown footage, patents and CT scans to create a three-dimensional simulation of the iPhone Duo’s hinge. It then compared the model with the reported locations of screen damage to explore possible explanations.
However, the precise cause of the display issues has not yet been established.
Customers Await Further Clarification
Apple has advised users experiencing inner-screen problems to contact AppleCare and has offered replacements for affected devices. However, further details about the scope of the issue and any potential technical changes have yet to be announced.
Attention is now focused on whether Apple can identify the underlying cause and introduce measures to prevent similar problems in future devices.
