Apple Acknowledges iPhone Duo Inner Display Cracking Issue, Offers Free Replacements
Apple has officially addressed growing reports of inner display cracking on its recently launched iPhone Duo foldable smartphone, acknowledging the issue and advising affected users to contact AppleCare for a free replacement device. This swift action applies even without an AppleCare+ plan, underscoring Apple's commitment.
Barely a week after its highly anticipated global launch, Apple's inaugural foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo, is facing a significant challenge as numerous users report issues with its inner display cracking along the hinge. In response to these escalating concerns, Apple has officially acknowledged the problem, advising affected customers to reach out to AppleCare for a replacement device.
The iPhone Duo, unveiled at an Apple event on September 9, 2026, and released on October 23, 2026, was positioned as a groundbreaking entry into the foldable market, combining a compact design with an expansive 7.6-inch Super Retina XDR inner display. However, reports of the inner screen cracking have quickly emerged across social media platforms and online forums like Reddit, with some users coining the term "Crackgate" for the issue. iPhone Duo: Apple Foldable Phone Display Faces Hinge Failure Issues After Launch.
Apple's Official Stance and User Experience
In a statement provided to 9to5Mac, Apple confirmed its awareness of the situation. "The response to iPhone Duo from early users has been incredibly positive, and we are seeing exciting things from developers who are rapidly updating their apps to take advantage of its unique form factor," Apple stated. "We are aware of an issue impacting the inner display on a small number of iPhone Duo units. If users experience issues with their iPhone Duo display, they should contact AppleCare for a replacement." Crucially, Apple has clarified that users do not need an AppleCare+ plan to be eligible for a replacement for this specific display problem.
Reports from affected users describe the cracks appearing along the central crease of the inner display, often accompanied by a distinct crunching sound upon unfolding. Some have also noted associated display malfunctions such as a white patch or stuck pixels. While the exact scale of the problem remains unclear, these issues are reportedly surfacing quickly after activation, with some even experiencing cracks during the initial setup process.
Potential Causes and Industry Context
Analysts and repair experts like iFixit suggest that a defective hinge component might be the underlying cause, potentially putting undue pressure on the flexible display. This highlights the inherent complexities and durability challenges associated with foldable screen technology, a landscape where competitors like Samsung and Google have spent years refining their designs.
The iPhone Duo features a 7.6-inch Super Retina XDR inner display with a nano-texture finish and a 5.4-inch Super Retina XDR OLED outer display. It is powered by the Apple A20 Pro chipset and runs on iOS 27.2. Weighing 254g, the device boasts a sophisticated design that aims to minimise crease visibility, even featuring a replaceable cover layer on the folding screen to maintain its aesthetic over time.
Implications for Indian Consumers
For the Indian market, where the iPhone Duo launched alongside its global release on October 23, 2026, the company had noted "nothing short of extraordinary" demand, with pre-orders selling out rapidly and delivery estimates extending into early 2027. While the starting price in the US was approximately $2,000, specific India pricing for all variants is available through official channels. Vivo Y600 with 10,000mAh Battery Set to Launch on October 30.
This swift response from Apple, offering direct replacements without requiring AppleCare+, is a critical step in addressing customer confidence in its groundbreaking, albeit nascent, foldable technology. Users in India experiencing issues are encouraged to contact AppleCare directly to resolve any display integrity concerns.
Disclaimer: AI tools assisted in compiling the foundational data and research for this report. The final content was reviewed, edited and verified by human editors at LatestLY.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 27, 2026 02:41 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).