Apple's new foldable iPhone faces early screen durability issues linked to hinge design
Early reports indicate that some units of Apple's first foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo, are experiencing screen cracks near the hinge shortly after launch. According to teardown experts, the flexible inner display may be rubbing against a rigid part of the hinge mechanism, creating stress points that lead to damage. Apple has acknowledged the problem and is replacing affected devices without disclosing the full scale of the issue.
Within hours of the iPhone Duo’s launch on Friday, October 24, 2026, users began reporting cracks in the inner foldable screen, specifically near the hinge area, with damage appearing as linear fractures on the right side of the display. The issue was confirmed by Apple, which acknowledged a “small number” of affected units and initiated replacements without disclosing the exact scale of the problem. Teardown experts at iFixit, led by senior technician Shahram Mokhtari, identified a mechanical flaw in the hinge mechanism: the flexible inner screen appears to rub against a rigid support bar during folding, creating stress hotspots that lead to failure. This contact point is exacerbated by the design’s central hinge support, which transitions to accommodate a crossing flex cable and leaves sharp edges that can press into the delicate display. Video evidence from YouTuber CuriousHagi showed a snapped hinge component after durability testing, while users reported hearing audible cracks during use. The problem seems isolated to early units, as Apple maintains the devices are otherwise functional for most users.
The broader context involves Apple’s first foray into foldable smartphones, a category dominated by Samsung and Huawei, where hinge reliability has historically been a major challenge. This initial generation of the iPhone Duo represents Apple’s first attempt at balancing form factor innovation with durability, likely prioritizing sleekness and seamless folding over long
The iPhone Duo’s hinge issues could significantly impact consumer trust in Apple’s premium product line, especially as foldable devices are marketed as long-term investments. Early failures may deter cautious buyers from adopting the technology, potentially slowing market penetration despite Apple’s brand strength. The incident also highlights the broader tension between innovation and reliability in high-stakes hardware design—similar to the Galaxy Fold’s 2019 launch, where screen durability problems led to a delayed release and reputational damage. While Apple has not faced a recall, the precedent suggests that unresolved mechanical flaws in early foldables can erode confidence across an entire product category. The tech industry may respond with more rigorous third-party testing before launch, and repair services could see increased demand for hinge and screen replacements. What’s next remains uncertain: if Apple addresses the flaw in a software or firmware update, it may avoid broa