An increasing number of iPhone users have been reporting numb spots or dead strips on the touchscreens of their phones, either on the top or bottom portions of the screen, and London-based analyst Richard Windsor from Nomura International says it could become more widespread.

Windsor says Apple bought the touchscreen technology from a Finnish firm that now reports that prolonged and constant usage might lead to unresponsive display problems in about three to six months of extensive use.

Users report on Apple forums that Apple quietly replaces units with these problems with no questions asked, indicating that they are aware of the problem. As we approach the estimated time range where these dead areas might start showing up, expect more reports of these dead strips soon, if it really is a problem.