Some iPhone Duo Models Are Breaking. iFixit’s Teardown Might Explain Why

The iPhone Duo's inner screen can crack, making repairs costly and difficult.

Multiple users are reporting that the inner screen of the new iPhone Duo foldable phone is cracking shortly after purchase, with some instances occurring during initial device setup. This issue has led to the problem being dubbed "crackgate" on social media. The full extent of the problem's prevalence is currently unknown, and Apple has not yet commented on the reports. The iPhone Duo received a provisional repairability score of 5/10 from iFixit, the highest score for any foldable phone they have reviewed, despite the challenges presented by the foldable design. iFixit's teardown revealed that while the battery and external components are relatively easy to replace, the inner display, particularly its matte nano-texture finish, is delicate and difficult to repair. This fragility mirrors issues seen in earlier foldable devices from other manufacturers.

The iPhone Duo's inner screen cracking issue highlights the ongoing engineering challenges in foldable phone durability, a problem that has plagued the category since its inception. While Apple's offering achieves a record repairability score for a foldable, the difficulty in fixing the primary folding display suggests that this class of device may remain inherently fragile and expensive to maintain. The high cost of screen repair, $999, further exacerbates this issue for consumers.

Despite early durability concerns, Apple's proactive release of a repair manual for the iPhone Duo indicates a continued shift toward greater repair accessibility, influenced by legislative pressures. However, the fundamental difficulty in repairing the foldable screen, as detailed by iFixit, means that even with manuals, significant technical skill and specialized tools are required, leaving many users reliant on costly manufacturer services.