Apple’s £1,999 iPhone Duo foldable could face significant challenges in repair, insurance and refurbishment. Industry specialists have warned that the device’s flexible display, complex hinge and tightly integrated components could make repairs considerably more expensive than those of conventional smartphones. One repair specialist estimated that screen replacement could cost around £800.

The repairability of foldable smartphones remains a concern across the industry. iFixit questioned whether the Duo would be sufficiently repairable, while specialists from SquareTrade and SPB suggested that the cost of replacing screens and hinge mechanisms could lead insurers to apply higher premiums, larger excesses or dedicated coverage categories.

These challenges could also affect the secondary market. Envirofone CTO Sam Hargreaves noted that foldable devices require more specialised diagnostics and repairs, while refurbishers will need better data on failure rates, component costs and residual values before processing them at scale. Without affordable repair options, damaged devices could be written off instead of being restored and resold.

The iPhone Duo therefore highlights an important question for the circular technology sector: whether advanced hardware can be designed and supported for long-term reuse. As foldable devices become more common, access to replacement parts, repair expertise and manufacturer support will play a major role in determining whether they become viable circular products rather than short-lifecycle replacements.