The recent issue regarding inner screen cracking (Crackgate)on select units of the iPhone Duo has reportedly been traced to a faulty component material supplied by a manufacturing partner, rather than a fundamental design flaw in the folding mechanism itself. Early teardown analyses and widespread social media reports previously highlighted failures concentrated directly along the central fold area, prompting intense industry speculation.
Image: JerryRigEverything
According to information shared by industry tipster Ice Universe and tech source Kang, the defects originate from substandard materials utilized within a specific internal support plate.
This plate acts as a crucial baseline during the opening and closing movements of the display. Investigations revealed severe compression marks on adjacent mechanisms, which ultimately cause the structural support to rupture and damage the overlying screen.
The mystery behind the iPhone Duo’s hinge issues may finally be solved.
According to Chinese tech insider Kang, the issue has reportedly been traced to defective materials from one of Apple’s two hinge suppliers, rather than a fundamental design flaw.
Apple can reportedly… pic.twitter.com/5xHSOoTJF1
— Ice Universe (@UniverseIce) November 7, 2026
Apple reportedly tracks the affected hardware batches using specific device serial numbers, allowing the company to isolate units containing components from the problematic supplier.
Meanwhile, Fine M-Tec, one of the hinge component manufacturers involved, issued an official statement denying any responsibility for the hardware failures. The supplier asserted that the reported damage did not stem from its manufacturing output and warned that it may pursue legal action against unverified allegations.
Apple acknowledged the issue
Apple has officially acknowledged the issue, noting that it impacts only a small percentage of total units. Affected consumers typically notice the defects shortly after initial device usage. The technology giant advises impacted users to contact official Apple Support channels to process device replacements.
However, the company has not yet clarified whether it will launch a formal, widespread product recall or rely solely on individual case-by-case replacements.
As investigations continue, consumer advocates are urging Apple to provide greater transparency regarding the affected serial number ranges to ensure all impacted buyers receive timely hardware support.
iPhone Duo Inner Screen Cracking Traced To A Faulty Component Material
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