iPhone Duo owners report cracks in Apple’s first foldable handset

Owners of the new foldable iPhone, dubbed the iPhone Duo, are reporting cracks in the device’s screen shortly after taking ownership. Apple confirmed an issue with a "small number" of units, and the company advised affected users to contact AppleCare for a replacement. Reports of the screen malfunction have surfaced on social media platforms such as Reddit since the handset went on general sale globally on Friday.

One user in Australia said their Duo cracked within six hours of taking ownership and posted an image of the phone showing a display malfunction. The screen appeared to break along the hinge when the user continued to open it, resulting in an audible crack. The owner's local Apple store immediately replaced the phone.

Another user in Australia reported hearing a "cracking noise" which also caused a similar screen issue. A Bloomberg report highlighted similar complaints from users in the US and India. Apple believes the affected units are experiencing defects quickly after use, but the company maintains that the response from early users has been "incredibly positive."

The new product launch has been exceptionally successful for Apple, which took over as CEO in September from Tim Cook. Demand for the iPhone Duo has been so high that the device has sold out, with the next shipment expected in January.

Experts suggest that there have been too few examples of the screen issue to determine whether it represents a more serious problem with Apple's first foldable device, which retails from $1,999 (£1,499). IDC's Francisco Jeronimo stated that it is too early to tell if the screen issue is significant, citing Samsung's experience with the original Galaxy Fold in 2019.

However, he emphasized the importance of Apple's response to the problem, noting that a transparent and fast resolution can contain the damage to the category. Apple has instructed customers to contact AppleCare for replacements if they encounter display issues.