Screen flickering, blackout, and light leakage issues in low light
Concerns raised mainly in domestic iPhone cafes
On the 30th, the day Apple officially launched its first 5G smartphone, the iPhone 12 series, customers were seen exploring the products at the Apple Store on Garosugil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul. Photo by Hyunmin Kim kimhyun81@
[Asia Economy Reporter Han Jinju] Controversy over defects in the iPhone 12 series products continues. Due to explosive popularity, it takes a considerable amount of time to receive the product, but issues are occurring with the device such as the display and camera. In particular, as complaints from buyers in Korea have intensified, Apple has also launched an investigation.
According to iPhone communities on the 12th, posts are continuously being uploaded reporting that iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro buyers are experiencing the so-called 'lightning phenomenon,' where the screen flickers when watching videos or web surfing in dark places with the screen brightness set low.
Among the issues raised by consumers, display-related problems predominate. Many users mention the 'black' issue where the screen goes completely dark at 50% brightness, uneven brightness leakage on the sides or bottom of the display, and other problems. Display-related issues such as the 'cherry blossom phenomenon,' where the screen appears reddish, and the 'green algae phenomenon,' where the screen shows a green tint, have been pointed out as problems since the initial release. On iPhone cafes, users also share parts to check immediately upon receiving the device, such as scratches on the edges or exterior, camera dust, button depressions, and defective pixels.
Since many consumers have pointed out defect issues right after the iPhone 12 release, Apple is closely monitoring the situation. Apple stated, "We are aware of a small number of reported cases and are currently investigating."
If various display-related phenomena are found to be software issues, they are expected to be resolved through software updates. Earlier this month, Apple recognized sound issues with the AirPods Pro and conducted free replacements, and there is a precedent where Apple replaced the display module of the iPhone X due to touch problems.
Regarding the iPhone 12 display issue, Apple Stores and authorized service centers are also identifying it as a software defect. One buyer said, "The Apple consultation center also informed consumers that it is a software problem, so I don't know when it will be resolved and am considering a refund." Another iPhone user criticized, "I bought a device for over 1 million won, but I don't understand why the consumer has to inspect it instead of Apple."
Separately from quality issues, the supply shortage of the iPhone 12 Pro continues even as it enters its second week since release. Some consumers who purchased through mobile carrier online malls applied for the iPhone 12 Pro pre-order at the end of October but have to wait until mid-November for delivery. Even if a refund is immediately processed, the fact that it takes at least 2 to 3 weeks to receive a new device is also a factor making consumers hesitate about refunds.
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