Cases of damage to the internal display hinge area have been reported one after another immediately following the launch of Apple's first foldable smartphone, the "iPhone Duo." As more people point out the product's durability issues, Samsung Electronics' foldable expertise is once again drawing attention.
According to overseas social media platforms such as Reddit, The Verge, and PhoneArena on the 25th, cases of the internal display of the iPhone Duo, which launched on the 23rd, breaking in similar areas are frequently observed. Most instances involve cracks running horizontally across the screen starting from two-thirds of the way along the hinge. This has raised growing doubts about display durability, particularly regarding the technological capabilities of the hinge area.
Previously, Apple stated that it had reinforced the durability of the iPhone Duo's display by placing high-strength glass above and below the panel and inserting a titanium plate beneath the screen. It also applied a matte nano-texture treatment to reduce crease marks from hinge folding. However, recent display cracks are presumed to be caused by the hinge joint. Opinions online suggest that because the joint is located in an area subjected to significant pressure, the nearby display may be receiving greater impact.
Furthermore, Samsung Electronics' foldable technology, which has improved hinge and display structures over eight generations since launching its first Galaxy Fold in 2019, is once again drawing attention. Many consumers are posting videos and posts comparing the Galaxy Z Fold8 and the iPhone Duo.
The Samsung Electronics foldable series has evolved from the most basic in-folding hinge, changing various materials, waterproofing, and hinge opening/closing structures. The new product this year, the Galaxy Z Fold8, applies "Flex Titanium" technology featuring a titanium double-layer structure.
First, a titanium plate is positioned at the very bottom of the display module to support the display. A precise grid pattern is applied to the titanium plate through HYBE lead processing, allowing it to bend flexibly while maintaining structural strength despite being made of titanium.
The titanium alloy film located beneath the display panel is processed to be as thin as tens of micrometers—about one-third the thickness of a human hair—and possesses the strength, flexibility, and elastic recovery needed to withstand repeated folding. The hinge is also designed with a structure that endures repetitive movement while reducing the product's thickness and weight.
Apple's iPhone Duo also attracted attention for reportedly using panels from Samsung Display. However, as it is their first foldable product, it appears difficult to catch up with Samsung, which has accumulated long-standing expertise in panel support, pressure distribution at the hinge area, and the placement and design of internal materials and components.
Meanwhile, Apple has not issued any particular statement regarding the display defect situation of the iPhone Duo.
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