Apple’s newly released foldable iPhone, the iPhone Duo, has encountered screen durability issues reported by a small number of users shortly after its launch. The device, priced at £1,999, went on sale last Friday and has since been subject to several reports of screen damage occurring along the hinge.

Multiple users have described difficulty in unfolding the iPhone Duo, accompanied by a popping sound and the appearance of a visible line along the crease of the screen. One customer from Australia shared on Reddit that within six hours of use—having opened the phone fewer than 20 times—the screen cracked near the internal hinge. Another user based in Dallas reported a similar experience, stating that after folding the device only four times, the hinge became stiff and emitted a loud pop, followed by the screen breaking.

These cases are part of a broader but limited series of complaints, with around ten similar incidents documented globally, including reports from China. Despite these issues, users noted that Apple stores replaced the affected units. Apple confirmed that only a very small number of devices exhibited this fault and that the defect, when present, appeared early in the device’s use.

In response to the concerns, Apple initially provided a dedicated support webpage titled “iPhone Duo Troubleshooting Hinge Issues,” although this page was later taken down. The company characterized the overall reception to the iPhone Duo as “incredibly positive” and stressed the rarity of the problem. Apple advised customers experiencing screen issues to contact AppleCare to arrange a replacement.

Market analysts from Counterpoint estimate that Apple is expected to sell six million units of the iPhone Duo within the year. While the reported fault represents a minor fraction of total sales, it highlights early challenges with the company’s entry into the foldable smartphone segment.