The iPhone Duo, Apple’s first foldable phone, has undergone a full teardown, revealing its internal design and potential repair challenges. The device features a compact internal layout and several accessible components, but some repairs could still be expensive and time-consuming.
Before opening the phone, the specialist tested the inner display by scratching it with a fingernail, and no visible marks appeared, possibly thanks to its nanotextured protective layer. The crease in the middle of the screen was also hard to see, though some reports suggest it may become more visible with regular use.
Design and Components
The iPhone Duo has a dual-battery design, with two cells having capacities of 2,962mAh and 1,921mAh, giving the device a combined capacity of 4,883mAh. Both batteries use Apple’s electrically activated adhesive removal system, making it easier to remove them.
The phone’s motherboard is remarkably compact, with Apple’s A20 Pro chip sitting alongside 12GB of RAM. The processor makes direct contact with a vapor chamber to help manage heat, which may explain why heat becomes concentrated in one half of the device.
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The modular USB-C port is secured by just two T4 screws, making it easier to replace. The rear section also contains a 25W wireless charging coil, and the camera system features two 48MP sensors.
Repair Challenges
Removing the power button, which includes the Touch ID sensor, proved especially difficult. While the part can be replaced, the process requires a lot of care, which could be a problem if Apple charges high prices to repair or replace the fingerprint sensor.
The display continued to work after reassembly, but its frame could not be restored to its original condition, highlighting the risks involved in repairing a foldable phone. Even a small mistake can damage an expensive component, making complex repairs costly.
Buyers are concerned about the time, work, and risk involved in repairs. The iPhone Duo shows that a well-organized design does not always make a foldable phone easy to repair. In fact, the complexity and potential cost of repairs may be a significant concern for owners, as it could lead to a situation where they have to choose between expensive repairs or replacing the device altogether.