Apple has finally spoken about the cracked screens appearing on its new foldable. The company told The Verge that it is aware of “an issue impacting the inner display” on a “small number of iPhone Duo units.”
Affected owners are being pointed to AppleCare for a replacement. Apple’s Alex Kirschner shared the full statement with The Verge on Monday evening.
“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. 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.”
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Kirschner added that most units are not susceptible to the fault. He also said the problem appears quickly on the phones that do have the defect.
What owners are actually seeing
Complaints started within days of the Duo going on sale. Users described a hinge that would tighten, then crack the panel when the phone was opened. A bright line running from the centre to the right edge usually followed.
The pattern is consistent enough that repair specialists have taken notice. iFixit published its teardown over the weekend and offered a theory about the cause. Its engineers showed how the folding panel may press against a centre bar at the point where damage appears.
Some buyers have had an easier time than others. One owner in Australia said an Apple Store replaced their unit on the spot, with no argument and no diagnostic fee.
A rough opening chapter for Ternus
The Duo is one of the first major devices launched under new chief executive John Ternus. He took over from Tim Cook, and the foldable was pitched as the biggest rethink of the iPhone in years.
Early reviews were warm but nervous. Critics liked the hardware while warning the design carried genuine risk. Those warnings now read sharper than they did at launch.
For buyers, the practical advice is simple. If your inner screen develops a line, a crack, or a dead patch, book an AppleCare appointment right away. The company is treating this as a known defect rather than user damage, which matters for anyone worried about a repair bill.
Apple has not said how many units are affected. It also has not confirmed whether the fault traces back to a specific production batch or supplier. That detail would decide whether the fix is a quiet swap program or something larger.
The original report, including the full statement, is at The Verge.
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