Dell Confirms Some XPS 13 Plus Laptop Screens Can Detach

This year’s Dell XPS 13 Plus was introduced as a fancier version of one of the most famous thin and light laptops, the Dell XPS 13. The XPS 13 didn’t necessarily need a prettier version, but the added features like the capacitive touch range and higher power processor support gave Dell enough reason to create a new WeU with the “Plus”moniker. Ironically, early versions of one of the highest-end XPS 13 Plus configurations have an issue that is surprising for a laptop of its past.

A Dell spokesperson confirmed to Ars Technica today that an “early batch”of Dell XPS 13 Plus laptops with OLED screens “may come loose due to problems with the third-party adhesive used.”This was reported yesterday by The Verge.

According to a spokesperson, “only a small number of screens will detach”from the affected lot’s laptops. Dell didn’t provide an exact number of affected devices, but the laptops in question appear to include the first XPS 13 Plus sent out to reviewers and early adopters. A Dell spokesperson said that once the adhesive issue was discovered, Dell corrected its manufacturing process so other devices should not be affected. Devices with LCD-LED screens are not affected.

Ars Technica has an XPS 13 Plus from a suspicious batch, but hasn’t had any display issues with it in two weeks. The only obvious quality issue with the laptop is the squeaky hinge.

A Dell spokesperson said the company is directly contacting customers who have purchased the Dell XPS 13 Plus OLED screen from Dell’s website and may be affected. Dell said it will also contact those who purchased a Dell XPS 13 Plus from a retailer and then registered a PC with Dell.

“If a customer has not registered their system, the first time they contact Dell Technical Support, the unique Service Tag associated with their computer will indicate to Dell Technical Support that the system needs to be repaired or replaced,”a Dell spokesperson said. “For customers who believe their PC is affected, or if you have any questions, please contact Dell Customer Support.”

Dell said it is also working with retail partners to replace units it sold to Dell. As noted by The Verge, at least one customer stated via Reddit that his order had already been withdrawn prior to shipment.

While we’ve had no issues with our OLED-based XPS 13 Plus in the past couple of weeks, others have been less fortunate. As The Verge notes, a disturbing video has surfaced online of an XPS 13 Plus shamelessly turning off its screen in the middle of a Best Buy store. There are similar reports on Reddit and other sites, including that the screen crashes or becomes almost unusable, or touch input doesn’t work.

As usual with Dell laptops, the XPS 13 Plus comes with a one-year US warranty.