Expert Explains Why the iPhone Duo’s Screen Cracks Despite Its Rp75 Million Price Tag

Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia — Several reports have highlighted screen damage affecting the recently launched iPhone Duo. The issue is considered serious, given that Apple’s first foldable phone is expensive, with the top-priced model costing as much as Rp75 million in Indonesia.

Some reports say the iPhone Duo’s inner screen has cracked along the hinge fold. Lines have also appeared on the right-hand side of the display.

So what is actually happening?

Shahram Mokhtari, a technician at iFixit, has offered an explanation. He believes the problem is most likely caused by the hinge components.

A foldable phone’s hinge contains gears, springs and joints. These components work together to ensure the device folds flat and to create the right amount of space for the screen.

The problem, however, arises when the hinge components press against the inner display. Mokhtari explained that a sharp metal protrusion touching the screen causes its layers to crack.

Damage to a support rod means that the component does not retract when the phone is folded. This results in an impact and direct physical pressure on the screen, The Verge reported on Wednesday (28 October 2026).

This technical explanation is consistent with several reported cases of iPhone Duo screen damage, including a finding by YouTuber CuriousHagi that the hinge connecting to the central rod had broken.

Mokhtari nevertheless believes Apple will learn valuable lessons from its first foldable phone. Engineers are expected to gather data on the hinge and redesign the component for the next generation.

Apple has acknowledged the issue, although it has not disclosed the technical cause of the iPhone Duo screen damage.

The Cupertino-based technology giant has only said that the problem affects a small number of iPhone Duo units. Apple is not recalling devices already on the market, but has promised new replacement units to affected customers.