Compared to slab phones, foldable smartphones have several moving, delicate parts that let them switch from a standard-sized display to a larger one with a single unfold, giving users an immersive experience on the go. Apple’s first-ever foldable, iPhone Duo, is no different as it uses the same hinge and gear system as any other foldable released so far, which could make small particles like dust a threat and increase the risk of damage under heavy pressure. To assess how the iPhone Duo handles such foreign elements, renowned YouTube channel JerryRigEverything put the device through its paces with rigorous tests, including scratch, heat, dust, and bend tests.
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iPhone Duo goes through hell in JerryRigEverything’s durability test
In a video uploaded by Zack Nelson on his YouTube channel, JerryRigEverything, the iPhone Duo undergoes his standard durability regimen, and Apple’s foldable smartphone ultimately fails under heavy pressure on the back. Here’s everything the iPhone Duo went through:
Cover display and frame scratch test
Protected by Ceramic Shield 2, the 5.4-inch outer glass undergoes a scratch test at different hardness levels and shows hairline scratches at Mohs level 7. This is impressive since most other smartphones, including flagships, endure such scratches at level 6. On to the frame, the razor-blade scrapes reveal colour-matched anodization peeling off the grade-5 titanium frame and volume buttons.
Inner display scratch test
Upon scratching the considerably more delicate inner display, despite Apple’s dual ultra-thin glass structure beneath the surface, the top flexible plastic/protective layer scratches at Mohs level 2, with deeper grooves at level 3. Pressing a fingernail firmly into the display leaves permanent indentation marks.
It’s also worth noting the nano-texture matte finish, which, when peeled off, presents a more vibrant, albeit more reflective panel. While it’s not meant to be removed, Apple charges Rs 5,900 for replacement in India if users damage it over time.
Burn test
The cover display survives direct lighter flame exposure for over 20 seconds before the OLED pixels turn white and partially recover, while the nano-textured inner-display layer reacts quickly to open flame, suffering visible burn damage and pixel discolouration within roughly 10 seconds, leaving a permanent dead-pixel spot.
Dust test
One of the most crucial tests for a foldable, Zack pours a large amount of sand and dirt over the open folding screen and directly onto the hinge mechanism to test Apple’s claimed IP68 dust-resistance rating. The dirt immediately enters through tiny gaps around the titanium hinge, jamming the internal gear and folding mechanism.
Bend Test
When bending the iPhone Duo backwards from the reverse-opening position, the phone goes past 180 degrees, causing internal hinge damage. As a result, the test causes the OLED panel to fail, leaving a permanent, bright vertical green line that runs through the crease. As for repair costs, Apple officially lists the inner display repair at Rs 1,49,900, while the outer display costs Rs 42,900 to repair.
In the same exact test, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8‘s (review) inner display didn’t sustain any damage, even though the frame went through the same tolerance.
Should you be worried about iPhone Duo’s durability?
Even though the iPhone Duo didn’t survive JerryRigEverything’s durability test, in real-world use it’s unlikely the smartphone’s displays will endure that kind of stress unless there’s a severe accident, such as the phone falling from a car on the road, in which case most smartphones’ survival is uncertain.
All in all, to minimise damage to your iPhone Duo, or any foldable smartphone for that matter, use a durable case on both sides and avoid applying too much pressure with your fingers or nails to the inner flexible display. Also, even though the phone is IP68-rated, avoid taking it out in dusty environments to minimise the risk of long-term damage.
