The iPhone 16 series hit the shelves in September, drawing attention from tech enthusiasts. While the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max models are often the center of attention, the standard iPhone 16 has its own set of fans who appreciate a more affordable option. The popular YouTube channel JerryRigEverything recently conducted a series of durability tests to see how well this model holds up under pressure. Here’s what we learned about the iPhone 16’s toughness and build quality.
Pro Models Use Titanium, But Standard iPhone 16 Stays Strong
The iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max boast titanium frames, which Apple claims make them the most durable iPhones ever. However, the standard iPhone 16 and its Plus variant feature aluminum frames instead. Does this make them less durable? Surprisingly, the tests suggest otherwise.
YouTuber Zack from JerryRigEverything examined whether this aluminum design compromises strength compared to the pricier titanium models. The results showed that the iPhone 16 holds up remarkably well, proving that it can compete in durability despite its lower price point.
New Features: Easier Battery Removal and Upgraded Ceramic Shield
One of the standout features of the iPhone 16 is its updated battery removal process. The phone uses a new electricity-sensitive adhesive, which makes it much simpler to take out the battery. This adhesive releases with a low-voltage current, making battery replacement less hassle than previous models.
Apple also introduced a new generation of Ceramic Shield for the iPhone 16’s screen. This material aims to provide better protection against drops and scratches, enhancing the overall durability of the device.
Scratch Test: Ceramic Shield Shows Its Strength
In scratch tests, the iPhone 16 performed well. Marks began appearing at level 6 on the Mohs hardness scale, similar to other flagship smartphones. However, the scratches were faint, showing better resistance than many devices, including last year’s iPhone 15. More pronounced scratches were only noticeable at level 7, which indicates the improved quality of the Ceramic Shield.
The durability test also extended to the new Camera Button, which Apple has coated with a layer of sapphire crystal. Sapphire is known for its scratch resistance, and during the test, Zack could not scratch the Camera Button, showcasing its robust build.
Camera Protection: No Compromise on Quality
The iPhone 16’s camera module is another area where Apple seems to have made durability a priority. The camera lenses are protected by sapphire crystal, known for its scratch resistance. Despite Zack’s attempts to scratch the lens, it remained unscathed. This means users can expect their camera lenses to stay clear, even with everyday use and minor accidents.
Heat and Bend Tests: Surviving Extreme Conditions
The iPhone 16’s screen was subjected to a flame test to evaluate its heat resistance. Zack held a lighter close to the screen for several seconds, but the display showed no signs of damage. There were no dead pixels or visible marks, indicating that the screen can withstand high temperatures without losing functionality.
For the bend test, Zack tried to flex the phone from both the front and back. Despite putting considerable force, he could not bend the iPhone 16, demonstrating its strong structural integrity. This result is impressive, especially considering the standard model uses aluminum instead of the Pro’s titanium frame. The aluminum build proved to be just as robust, debunking concerns about its durability.
Conclusion: The iPhone 16 Stands Up to the Test
The durability tests conducted by JerryRigEverything confirm that the iPhone 16 is a tough and reliable device. From its scratch-resistant Ceramic Shield and sapphire-coated camera button to its strong aluminum frame, the iPhone 16 can handle everyday wear and tear as well as more extreme conditions.
Apple’s decision to use aluminum for the standard model did not compromise its strength, and the updated features, like the easier battery removal and enhanced screen protection, only add to its value. Overall, the iPhone 16 proves itself to be a durable option, making it a great choice for users who want a reliable iPhone without opting for the more expensive Pro models.
This comprehensive look at the iPhone 16’s durability highlights Apple’s commitment to building resilient devices, ensuring that users get a long-lasting smartphone experience, even with the more affordable model.
