Apple tells owners to swap out iPhone Duos with cracked inner screens

Apple has confirmed a display problem affecting its new foldable iPhone Duo. The issue involves cracked inner screens that often display a bright line running from the center toward the right side.

In a statement provided to Bloomberg and 9to5Mac, Apple acknowledged it is aware of an issue impacting the inner display on a small number of units. Alex Kirschner of Apple shared the message with The Verge. He noted that most units are not susceptible to the defect. Kirschner added that the problems appear quickly on the devices that are affected.

Apple instructed users with broken displays to contact AppleCare for a replacement. The company said the response to the iPhone Duo has been positive so far. It also mentioned that developers are rapidly updating their apps to use the device's unique form factor.

User reports of the malfunction began shortly after the phone launched. Owners described a hinge that tightened up, causing a crack when the device was opened. The cracks were accompanied by the distinctive bright lines on the screen. One user in Australia said an Apple Store replaced their unit on the spot.

iFixit published a teardown of the iPhone Duo this weekend. The analysis suggested that the foldable screen might be pushing against a center bar, which could cause the damage. The Verge contacted Apple about the reports but has not received an on-record response regarding the issues.

These phones are among the first devices to launch under new CEO John Ternus, who took over from Tim Cook.