Apple Issues New Repair Guidance for iPhone Duo Screen Cracks

Apple has sent new internal instructions to its stores and authorized service providers on how to handle complaints about cracking inner screens on the foldable iPhone Duo. The move follows reports from early users who describe cracks and bright lines on the display after only a short period of use.

According to the guidance, technicians must inspect affected devices and decide whether they need repair or replacement under Apple's standard service procedures. Apple says the problem affects a limited number of units and that most phones do not show the defect.

What owners are reporting

Complaints surfaced soon after the phone reached buyers. Some owners posted photos of cracks and bright lines on the inner display, particularly near the central hinge that folds and unfolds the device. One owner in Australia said the screen cracked after the phone had been opened and closed fewer than 20 times, with no visible damage beforehand.

Possible hinge link

Apple has not given an official cause. Early analysis from iFixit, based on teardown footage, patents and CT scans, points to the hinge mechanism. It suggests that one of the support bars inside the hinge may not retract properly when the phone folds, concentrating pressure on a small area of the inner screen. iFixit's explanation remains a technical hypothesis, and Apple has not confirmed it.

iFixit also noted that replacing the inner display is not easy, even though it called the iPhone Duo the most repairable foldable it has taken apart. The phone received a preliminary repairability score of 5 out of 10. Outside warranty, a screen replacement can cost up to $999 in the United States.

What Apple is offering

Apple has not recalled the iPhone Duo or announced a separate free repair or replacement program. Users who run into inner-screen problems are advised to contact AppleCare or visit an authorized service center, where their device will be examined and the appropriate action decided.