iPhone Duo survives over 215,000 folds in CNET laboratory durability tests

The CNET laboratory continues its durability testing of Apple's first foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo, priced at $2,000. The device is undergoing continuous wear-and-tear evaluations using a custom-built automated testing rig.

• CNET specialists developed a Fold-a-Phone setup that unfolds and folds the device about 900 times per hour.
• By November 2, the testing counter had already exceeded 215,000 continuous cycles.
• Lab director Matthew Murray reported no visible damage to the hinge or screens so far.

Testing the folding mechanism durability

To conduct the stress tests, specialists engineered a dedicated testing apparatus named Fold-a-Phone. This automated machine repeatedly opens and closes the smartphone approximately 900 times every hour. The device was purchased just over a week ago and has been undergoing continuous wear checks since then.

The testing approach allows engineers to study the heavy loads placed on the hinge and the magnetic components that securely hold the two halves of the smartphone in a closed position. Because Apple did not disclose official figures regarding the projected lifespan of the iPhone Duo folding mechanism, CNET's tests provide crucial practical insights into its longevity.

Condition of the screens and hinge

According to lab director Matthew Murray, experts have not yet detected any structural damage to the hinge or either of the screens. Furthermore, the crease on the internal flexible display has not become any more prominent compared to the device's condition right after unboxing.

The rigorous tests are supervised by professional engineers and testing experts who closely monitor the structure's operation and assess its condition after tens of thousands of cycles. This meticulous observation helps track how the materials handle prolonged mechanical stress over time.

Implications for foldable smartphone buyers

Independent stress tests of this scale carry significant weight for consumers considering high-end foldable gadgets, especially given the iPhone Duo's steep $2,000 price tag. Durability remains one of the primary concerns for potential buyers entering the foldable market.

The fact that the device has surpassed 215,000 folds without mechanical failure demonstrates robust build quality and thoughtful engineering by Apple. While testing continues, these preliminary milestones offer reassuring data on the real-world reliability of the new foldable flagship.