Within days of its release, early buyers of Apple’s iPhone Duo—a £2,000 foldable device—have reported cracks, dead pixels, and lines across the screen, prompting a wave of returns. Reports indicate users experienced unexpected stiffness in the foldable mechanism followed by an audible 'pop,' leaving screens damaged. Some owners returned the device within 24 hours, citing usability concerns and high costs.
Apple acknowledges display issues, directs affected users to AppleCare. The company stated that the response to the iPhone Duo from early users has been 'incredibly positive,' while noting that a 'small number' of units are affected by display problems. Apple directed customers experiencing issues to contact AppleCare for replacements.
Users cite design flaws, high cost as reasons for returns. On Reddit, buyers shared frustrations over the device’s heavy weight, small outer screen, lack of Face ID, and awkward Touch ID placement. One user described returning the Duo the day after purchase, calling it a relief to revert to their iPhone 17 Pro. Another criticized the outer screen as 'too small to be useful,' despite enjoying the larger inner display. Reports also highlighted difficulties with unlocking the device, requiring workaround solutions like Apple Watch integration.
Apple maintains positive early feedback despite issues. In a statement to Business Insider, Apple emphasized that most early users had a positive experience, while acknowledging isolated display defects. The company did not provide specific numbers on affected units or return rates. Social media has amplified the issue, with users sharing images of cracked screens and creating satirical wallpapers mocking the defect. Some widely circulated images of damaged screens were later identified as altered or AI-generated.
The iPhone Duo, Apple’s first foldable device, launched with significant anticipation and a long waitlist. Its high price point and novel design have drawn both praise and criticism, with early adopters now weighing functionality against cost. Apple has not announced any official changes to the device or return policies beyond directing affected users to AppleCare.