Apple's iPhone Duo Faces 'Crackgate' Backlash as UBS Tracks Lingering 89-Day Wait Times

Apple's first foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo, launched in late October 2026 to significant initial demand but quickly encountered quality concerns dubbed 'Crackgate' across social media and tech forums. Multiple users reported inner display cracks along the hinge within hours or days of use, prompting Apple to acknowledge the issue affecting a 'small number of units' and offer replacements via AppleCare.

Reports from outlets including TechRadar, PetaPixel, and PhoneArena detail consistent failure patterns: cracks and bright pixel lines near the hinge, with iFixit teardowns suggesting a mechanical issue where a hinge component may contact and damage the flexible OLED panel. A Foxconn employee cited in PhoneArena indicated the problem stemmed from accelerated production timelines and relaxed quality controls to meet launch demand. Apple has maintained the issue is limited and not indicative of a broader design flaw, while some reports note fake images have circulated alongside genuine cases.

Concurrently, UBS Evidence Lab data shows average wait times for the $1,999+ Duo at approximately 89 days across 30+ markets, down about seven days week-over-week but still signaling strong backlog. Analyst David Vogt noted that while display issues are a concern, they are not the primary driver of easing waits; Pro and Pro Max models show stable or slightly improved availability comparable to prior launches. UBS maintained its Neutral rating and $296 price target, forecasting robust 2026 iPhone growth.

The episode highlights tensions between premium pricing, foldable durability expectations, and supply chain pressures, with potential implications for consumer switching to established iPhone 18 Pro models or awaiting a refined second-generation Duo.