Apple’s $1,999 iPhone Duo has failed JerryRigEverything’s durability test after dust jammed its titanium hinge and a bending test permanently damaged the inner display. Despite Apple’s IP68 dust and water resistance rating, the foldable struggled against debris, raising concerns about its durability just days after launch.
YouTuber Zack Nelson subjected the iPhone Duo to scratch, dust, heat, and bending tests. While its outer display performed well, the folding mechanism and flexible screen suffered significant damage.
Dust Jams iPhone Duo’s Titanium Hinge
Nelson poured dust and dirt over the device before repeatedly opening and closing it. Particles entered the hinge through several openings, eventually preventing the phone from closing completely.
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As we previously covered, Apple advertises an IP68 rating and a titanium hinge containing more than 100 components.
However, the test revealed several weaknesses:
- Dust resistance: Debris accumulated inside the hinge despite the IP68 rating.
- Closing mechanism: The magnets could no longer hold the phone shut.
- Bend resistance: Backward bending damaged the flexible display.
- Display failure: Green lines appeared before the inner screen stopped responding.
iPhone Duo Scratch and Bend Test Results
| Component | Test Result |
|---|---|
| Outer display | Scratches at Mohs level 7 |
| Inner display | Scratches at Mohs level 2 |
| Titanium hinge | Jammed after dust exposure |
| Flexible OLED | Permanent green lines |
| Final result | Inner display unresponsive |
Interestingly, Apple’s nano-texture coating helped conceal minor scratches while the screen remained active, although the damage remained permanent.
The subsequent bend test caused additional green lines and eventually disabled the display. Nelson could not determine whether trapped dust contributed to the failure.
The findings also raise concerns about repair expenses. As we previously reported, the foldable’s complex screen construction makes repair costs particularly important. Nelson cited approximately $1,000 for an inner display replacement.
Although these extreme tests exceed normal daily use, they highlight potential risks when exposing the iPhone Duo to sand, dust, or excessive bending.
Watch the full JerryRigEverything durability test.
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