Apple Replaces iPhone Duo Units Over Screen Cracking Defect
Apple is providing free replacements for iPhone Duo foldable devices after a hardware defect caused internal screens to crack without apparent cause.
Apple Inc. is replacing iPhone Duo foldable devices under warranty following reports of internal screens cracking without apparent cause, a hardware issue users have dubbed Crackgate. Affected customers report hearing popping sounds or noticing a raised bump on the hinge before hairline cracks or pixel lines appear on the display.
While Apple confirmed on October 26 that only a small percentage of units are affected, the company has not officially disclosed the cause of the failures. Tech insiders report the problem stems from defective materials in an internal support plate provided by one of two hinge suppliers. These sources claim Apple can identify affected units via serial numbers, though no public lookup tool has been released. To resolve the issue, Apple is bypassing standard repair wait times and providing free replacements regardless of whether users have AppleCare+.
Conflicting views on the cause have emerged. A teardown by iFixit suggests the hinge structure may place excessive pressure on the folding panel. Meanwhile, South Korean manufacturer Fine M-Tec has denied responsibility for the failures and warned of potential legal action against unverified allegations.
