It has been confirmed that defects have surfaced on certain screens of the iPhone Duo, the first foldable smartphone newly introduced by Apple. Consequently, Apple has announced that it will provide replacement devices for the affected handsets.
Released to the market last week, the model sold out online within minutes and drew widespread global attention. Analysts had previously pointed out that the complex manufacturing process of the book-style folding phone could lead to supply constraints.
Cracks along the screen crease and Apple's response
Over the weekend, several customers took to social media to report that cracks and lines were appearing along the inner screen where the phone folds.
Issuing a statement on the matter, Apple noted that such an issue has affected only a handful of devices. The company advised users encountering this problem to get their devices replaced through AppleCare.
Details revealed on the cause of the defect
An investigation conducted by tech repair firm iFixit revealed that the defect originates near a cable running beneath the screen and the central support bar. They noted that the issue may be caused by heavy pressure exerted on the display when the support bar fails to retract properly as the phone folds.
Meanwhile, Francisco Jeronimo, Vice President at market research firm IDC, stated that Apple's prompt response to offer immediate replacements is a very sound and appropriate approach under the circumstances.
