Apple announced on Friday that several iPhone Duo units had suffered display cracks after just days of use, a problem that was first reported on Reddit and other social media sites. The company said it is aware of an issue impacting the inner display on a small number of units and that those devices exhibit the defect quickly.
A San Diego customer, Tom Battle, told Bloomberg that he heard a crunching sound when unfolding his phone and saw a large crack form along the centre crease. Venture capitalist Jonathan King echoed the experience, saying the inner screen became unusable and the device misregistered touches. Both highlighted how the hinge seemed to fail under normal use.
Apple’s statement emphasized that most Duos aren’t affected and that the company will replace any device showing the defect. The company urged users to contact AppleCare for a repair or replacement, noting that Apple has already sent replacement units to affected customers.
iFixit, a repair‑platform, suspects a hinge component failure is cracking the display rather than a problem with the panel itself. The analysis points to a misalignment that stresses the crease each time the phone is opened.
Apple is conducting a full investigation into the hinge design and will update customers once it determines whether a recall is necessary. Affected users are advised to reach out to AppleCare immediately to secure a replacement while the company works to resolve the flaw.