Apple confirms inner display fault in limited run of iPhone Duo devices

Apple is the latest major technology firm to launch a foldable smartphone, a move that signals a renewed push into the high-end mobile hardware market. The company confirmed today that a subset of these new devices is experiencing a visible defect in the inner screen.

In a statement provided to Bloomberg and 9to5Mac, Apple acknowledged an issue impacting the inner display on a small number of iPhone Duo units. The defect typically manifests as a bright line running from the center of the screen to the right side, often accompanied by cracking. Apple has instructed owners who notice this problem to contact AppleCare for a replacement.

Alex Kirschner, who shared the company's official response, noted that most units are not susceptible to the failure. He added that the issues appear quickly on the specific devices where the defect is present. The statement emphasized that early user response to the iPhone Duo has been positive, while developers rapidly update applications to utilize the device's unique form factor.

The problem surfaced immediately after the device launched. Users reported that the hinge would tighten, causing the display to crack when the phone was opened. One user in Australia reported that an Apple Store replaced their defective unit on the spot. These reports align with findings from iFixit, which published a teardown analysis this weekend. The teardown showed that the foldable screen may be pushing against a center bar, potentially causing the observed damage.

The iPhone Duo represents some of the first products released under the leadership of CEO John Ternus, who succeeded Tim Cook. The company has not provided an on-the-record explanation for the root cause beyond the display issue statement. The acknowledgment marks the first formal recognition of a hardware defect in the new device line since its arrival in retail channels.

Apple's decision to offer replacements for the affected units aims to mitigate potential impact on consumer confidence. The company did not specify the exact number of units affected or the timeframe in which the defect emerged during the manufacturing process. Customers with functioning devices are advised to monitor their screens for the distinctive bright lines and contact support if they appear.