Cracks appear in foldable iPhone screen; questions arise regarding hinge design

Some buyers of Apple’s first foldable smartphone, the ‘iPhone Duo,’ have reported cracks appearing on the internal screen, raising concerns regarding the device’s durability and its folding mechanism.

According to a report by the technology website MacRumors, some users have shared images showing cracks in the area of ​​the screen where the phone folds. Initial assessments point to a potential issue with an internal component of the hinge, though the exact cause of the defect has yet to be confirmed.

On social media, users have informally dubbed this issue "Hinge-gate." In a foldable phone, the hinge is the mechanism that enables the device to open and close; therefore, any malfunction in this component can directly affect the internal display.

Screen Cracking During Testing

According to a report by AppleInsider, a YouTuber known as "Curious Haggy" examined the internal components of the iPhone Duo after subjecting the device to various test conditions. The testing included exposing the phone to a dusty environment and applying pressure to the hinge from the opposite direction.

During this process, the phone became difficult to close. Subsequently, when an attempt was made to open it, a cracking sound was heard, and a crack appeared on the internal screen.

Upon opening the device, a broken component was discovered inside the hinge, connected to the upper section. Preliminary inspection revealed that this specific part appeared relatively thinner compared to other components within the hinge assembly. Marks around the area and on the internal screen suggest that the display may have been damaged by pressure or contact with an internal component.

Complaints have also emerged from other countries

Images have surfaced from China and several other countries showing bright lines and cracks appearing along the center of the folding screen. However, it remains unclear how many devices have been affected, and whether this issue is limited to a few individual units or could potentially impact a larger number of users.

According to experts, based on initial complaints and limited testing, it is not yet possible to definitively conclude that there is a fundamental flaw in the phone's design or manufacturing. Further technical investigation and an analysis of user reports are required to determine this.

Apple has not yet issued an official statement regarding the cracks appearing on the internal screen of the device, nor has it addressed the potential role of the hinge in this issue.