Apple’s first foldable iPhone, the iPhone Duo, is facing a new controversy that could affect anyone who has pre‑ordered it. Understanding the reported hardware flaw helps buyers decide whether to wait, repair, or walk away.

Reports of unusual gaps along the Duo’s frame and hinge—dubbed “Gapgate”—are raising durability concerns. Photos shared online show the openings can be large enough to expose internal parts.

The gaps may breach the phone’s IP68 dust‑and‑water resistance rating and could place unintended stress on internal components, according to the same reports. Such stress is especially worrying for a device with a complex folding mechanism.

Some Apple customers already cancelled their pre‑orders after the earlier “Crackgate” screen‑crack issue, and they are now reconsidering because of Gapgate. With a price tag of around $2,000, buyers expect high durability and are sensitive to defect news.

Apple has instructed retail staff to repair or replace damaged units, but after‑sales support has not fully eased buyer worries. The ongoing reports mean many potential owners may still choose to cancel or delay their purchase.