Apple may have reduced some iPhone Duo quality-control checks in an effort to increase shipments ahead of the year-end shopping season, according to an unconfirmed report from Jiemian News. Apple has not commented on the claim, which arrives as some users continue to report problems involving the foldable display and hinge mechanism.
The report says Apple is seeking to move more iPhone Duo units to stores. However, an anonymous Foxconn employee said certain components have already been replaced on the production line while maintaining that inspection standards have not been changed.
The reported production push is significant because Apple is said to be targeting 7.5 million iPhone Duo shipments by the end of 2026. Neither that target nor the alleged change in quality checks has been confirmed by Apple.
Separately, YouTube creator CuriousHagi examined the hinge assembly and identified a possible weak point: a connecting element that appears to contact the upper support plate. The part sits behind the middle of the inner display and appears thinner than other hinge components.
That contact could be linked to the popping sound reported by users whose inner screens later developed cracks, although the cause has not been independently established. Apple previously acknowledged that the issue affects a small number of devices and advised affected customers to seek a replacement.
The key remaining questions are whether production changes are being made to address the hinge issue and whether the report of relaxed inspections can be substantiated.
