Apple Addresses Screen Issues in iPhone Duo Amid Samsung’s Criticism
On November 2, 2026, Samsung initiated an advertising campaign spotlighting screen flaws in Apple’s newly released foldable iPhone Duo. Released in late October 2026, this device has faced significant backlash from users reporting audible clicks or crackling sounds when unfolding the phone, along with visible cracks and bright dead pixel lines along the fold. These screen problems, dubbed "Crackgate," have raised concerns across the United States, Australia, Canada, and other markets.
Apple has acknowledged that a small portion of iPhone Duo units are affected by internal display issues. In response, the company has launched a replacement program under AppleCare for devices exhibiting these faults. Official Apple statements confirm the recognition of this defect, describing it as an issue impacting the internal display on a limited number of iPhone Duo models.
Samsung’s Response and Market Positioning
Samsung emphasizes its extensive experience producing foldable smartphones since 2019, now offering the eighth generation with the Galaxy Fold 8, which is thinner and lighter than Apple’s iPhone Duo. The South Korean tech giant is actively promoting its foldable technology in Canada, Malaysia, and Australia, highlighting the iPhone Duo’s screen vulnerabilities in its marketing efforts.
Component supplier FineMTEC, responsible for parts used in the iPhone Duo, released a statement clarifying that the quality issues are not attributable to their components. Meanwhile, YouTube reviewer JerryRigEverything identified stress points in the hinge mechanism of the first-generation iPhone Duo, which may contribute to the reported display problems.
The unfolding situation underscores Samsung’s strategic use of Apple’s challenges to reinforce its leadership in the foldable smartphone market. For consumers, these developments highlight the critical importance of rigorous quality control in emerging tech products, especially in complex foldable devices.
As rivalry between Apple and Samsung intensifies, these issues could shape consumer trust and influence the competitive landscape moving forward, with Samsung poised to capitalize on Apple’s early missteps in the foldable phone segment.
As Apple moves forward with its replacement program, many users are sharing their experiences with the iPhone Duo's screen damage, raising questions about the device's durability. For a deeper look into the issues reported by iPhone Duo owners and Apple's subsequent improvements, check out our detailed coverage on user complaints and Apple's response.