Apple's $2,000 foldable iPhone reportedly cracks within hours as owners report display failures

Apple launched the iPhone Duo, a $2,000 foldable handset, on October 24, 2026. Within hours of purchase, owners began reporting that the inner display cracked, often in an identical pattern. Apple acknowledged that a small number of iPhone Duo units exhibited the issue and announced a program to replace handsets with the faulty screens. The problem was first highlighted by Notebookcheck and 9to5Mac on the launch day, and subsequent reports confirmed that the cracking occurs shortly after normal use. Coverage of the defect spans a range of technology and mainstream outlets. Notebookcheck and 9to5Mac led the initial reporting, describing the rapid display failures. GSMArena and the BBC relayed Apple’s official response, noting the replacement plan.

Fox News confirmed that some iPhone Duo screens were problematic, while The Hindu cited Apple’s statement about a limited impact. PhoneArena called the Duo launch “the most disappointing Apple release” and reported that the alleged hinge supplier threatened legal action against anyone blaming it for the so‑called “Crackgate.” TrendForce highlighted strong demand but warned that fold‑area structural reliability and hardware‑software integration remain challenges. Bloomberg expressed confidence that Apple can meet the surge in demand, and Tom’s Guide documented a 24‑hour hands‑on experience. BGR listed five major user problems, reinforcing the breadth of concerns. The iPhone Duo represents Apple’s first entry into the high‑price foldable market, positioning the device as a premium flagship. Expectations were high for a seamless blend of hardware innovation and software optimization, especially given Apple’s track record for durability. The rapid appearance of identical cracks raises questions about the durability of the hinge mechanism and the inner display’s material composition, prompting the hinge supplier’s threat to sue over blame attribution.

The term “Crackgate” has already entered the discourse, reflecting consumer frustration and the potential reputational risk for Apple at a time when demand for foldable devices is rising across the industry. Going forward, observers will watch Apple’s replacement rollout for speed and scope, as detailed by the BBC and GSMArena. Further statements from the hinge supplier could clarify liability and influence any legal proceedings. TrendForce’s ongoing reliability assessments may provide data on whether the structural issues are isolated or indicative of broader design flaws. Consumer sentiment, tracked by outlets such as BGR and PhoneArena, will likely affect demand trends as the market evaluates whether the iPhone Duo can recover from its early setbacks.