Drooid Logo
Back to story perspectives

Full Breakdown

iPhone Duo’s Folding Durability Under Scrutiny

By Drooid · · How we work

Testing Results and Observed Failures

Multiple independent reviewers have subjected the iPhone Duo to repeated folding cycles. YouTuber Kuba Klawiter folded the device by hand on a live stream until the inner screen cracked at 75,001 folds, noting a line appeared at 75,000 folds after an ice-bath test. Earlier, the phone remained functional past 50,000 folds and showed only minor “crunchiness” after exposure to dirt and dust. Tech journalist Joanna Stern employed a robot that completed over 32,000 folds without reaching failure, while YouTuber Tim Pan used an industrial folding machine to exceed 10,000 folds. The channel HTX Studio reported more than 3,000 folds before stopping. None of these reviewers broke their loaner units, as Apple’s review agreement prohibits intentional damage.

Comparison With Samsung Foldables

For context, Samsung publicly rates its latest Galaxy Z Flip and Z Fold models for 500,000 folds before screen failure, a figure more than double the 200,000 folds previously cited for earlier models. Klawiter’s own tests of the Galaxy Z Flip 3 and Z Flip 5 indicated both survived beyond 400,000 folds, suggesting a substantial durability gap between Apple’s and Samsung’s foldable offerings.

Apple’s Response

The company advised affected users to contact AppleCare for a replacement, emphasizing that the problem is being addressed. No official durability rating has been released by Apple.

Consumer Implications

At a launch price of roughly $2,000, durability expectations are high. The lack of a disclosed fold-rating, combined with early reports of screen cracking, raises questions about the long-term resilience of the hinge mechanism. Transparency about testing standards could help consumers assess whether the iPhone Duo’s durability aligns with its premium cost.

Summary of Key Figures

  • Kuba Klawiter – YouTuber; reported screen crack at 75,001 folds.
  • Joanna Stern – Tech journalist; robot test surpassed 32,000 folds.
  • Tim Pan – YouTuber (MediaStorm); industrial machine test exceeded 10,000 folds.
  • HTX Studio – YouTube channel; achieved 3,000+ folds.
  • Apple – Manufacturer; issued a statement about a limited display issue and offered AppleCare replacements.