30% of iPhone Duo buyers may have returned it, but I don’t think Apple should worry

9to5Mac conducted a poll of their readers who received an iPhone Duo in the first days, revealing that 30% of them returned it for a refund. This return rate may appear concerning, but it doesn't seem particularly surprising or worrisome to me. The iPhone Duo represents a significant change from previous iPhones, with differences in weight, display aspect ratio, and unique usage methods. Additionally, its premium price tag suggests that some buyers may be treating it as an experiment rather than a definitive purchase.

Upon investigation, The Verge reported on iPhone Duo buyers who returned the device within Apple's 14-day "no questions asked" return window. I decided to explore how many within the 9to5Mac readership had experienced this. With nearly 6,000 total votes, the data indicated that about a third of respondents returned their Duo. While such a return rate would be disastrous for most devices, it doesn't seem alarming for the Duo.

Apple marketed the iPhone Duo as a "the most transformational change to iPhone since the original," affecting aspects such as weight, display aspect ratio, and a novel method of using the device. Considering the high price, I had always thought that a considerable number of iPhone Duo buyers would view it as an experiment instead of a committed purchase. An example of this "try it and see" mindset was shared by our own Ryan Christoffel, who concluded after a week that it might not be the right fit for him.

Among those who decided to return their iPhone Duo, several readers provided reasons for their decision. Some mentioned the inability to use Touch ID, while others cited camera quality and usability issues. One reader reported that sand had gotten inside the device during a camping trip, causing the inner screen to function while the hinge became problematic.

Another person expressed dissatisfaction with the limited screen usability due to the persistent dock. Some users admitted the phone was awkward and not a suitable sole device given their priorities, while others were still intrigued by the device despite its shortcomings.

Lastly, random checks showed that Apple's shipping times were extended, with deliveries expected to arrive in late January. Given these factors, I believe Apple has little to worry about in terms of the iPhone Duo's return rate.