iPhone Duo debut encounters issues! Apple (AAPL.US) responds: Only affects a "small number" of devices, users can contact AppleCare for a free replacement

Zhitong Finance APP noted that Apple's (AAPL.US) first foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo, went on sale Friday, drawing long lines at stores and extended waiting times for pre-orders.

However, some users lucky enough to get their hands on this phone—starting at 15,999 RMB (with a U.S. starting price of $1,999)—during the first weekend have reported a serious issue: the inner display may be damaged, exhibiting a horizontal bright line extending from the hinge area.

Apple stated on Monday that it is aware of the issue, saying it affects only a "small number" of phones, and that affected users will be offered devices replacement through AppleCare warranty service.

An Apple spokesperson told CNBC: "We are aware of an issue affecting the inner display of a small number of iPhone Duo devices. If users encounter display problems with their iPhone Duo, they should contact AppleCare for a replacement."

Apple's official website states that out-of-warranty repair for the iPhone Duo inner display costs $999.

Most reports have come from anonymous users on online forums such as Reddit and X, and some fake images have also appeared online. However, device repair company iFixit spoke out after disassembling the new device and testing its dust resistance on Sunday, speculating that the issue may be related to Apple's hinge design.

iFixit technician Shahram Mokhtari said in a teardown video: "Many damage reports describe hearing a cracking sound when folding or unfolding the phone, and then continuing to use it by force. At the precise location where the damage occurs, the hinge has a slightly different shape."

iFixit CEO Kyle Wiens posted on X: "The hinge is actually made up of dozens of parts with incredible precision. Just a bit of manufacturing tolerance or a grain of sand could ruin the fragile display panel it's meant to protect."

Screen shattering issues have plagued foldable phones since 2019 and are considered one of the main barriers to the widespread adoption of the technology. That year, Samsung launched one of its first foldable devices, and reviewers soon discovered that the inner screen cracked during normal use.

Early reviewers have praised the iPhone Duo’s experience when unfolded, especially for multitasking and media consumption, but also pointed out that many apps have yet to be updated to take full advantage of the phone’s larger and wider screen.

Apple said on Monday that app updates for the new foldable device are already underway.

An Apple spokesperson stated: "Early users have responded extremely positively to iPhone Duo, and we are excited to see developers rapidly updating apps to fully leverage its unique form factor."