Apple says some iPhone Duo inner screens are cracking at the hinge

Apple has confirmed that the inner screen on some iPhone Duo phones is cracking along the hinge. Over the weekend, a handful of owners reported the damage. Apple told 9to5Mac it is aware of the problem and that affected users can contact AppleCare for a replacement.

What happened

Reports first showed up on Reddit and other forums. Owners say the inner display cracked along the center line of the hinge, the spot where the phone folds.

In its statement, Apple said it is "aware of an issue impacting the inner display on a small number of iPhone Duo units." The company also said early feedback on the phone has been incredibly positive, and that developers are quickly updating their apps for its unique shape.

How common is it

Apple describes the problem as affecting a very small number of units. It says most iPhone Duo phones are not affected. The company also says the problem appears to show up fairly quickly after people start using the phone.

Apple did not give a number of affected phones in the material available. It also did not say what is causing the cracks.

What to do

• Check the inner screen along the hinge line, especially in the early days of use.
• If it cracks, contact AppleCare and ask for a replacement.
• If you are thinking of buying one, keep this report in mind and watch for updates.

What is not known yet

Apple has not said whether the cracks come from a design flaw, a manufacturing problem or how the phone is used. It has also not said if anything will change for future units. Those answers will matter most to people deciding whether to buy.