The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro models come with a wide range of changes on the outside as well as on the inside. It appears that the company has paid a lot of attention to repairability this time around. The batteries, specifically, are quite easy to repair, with one test showing that it only takes under 90 seconds to replace the battery on the iPhone 16. However, the Ceramic Shield glass on the front and back is not prone to breaking, despite the fact that the devices come with Apple's second-generation technology. A new drop test reveals that the iPhone 16 Pro Max is as easy to break as it was before.
iPhone 16 Pro Max did not pass the new drop test, making us question if the second-generation Ceramic Shield has brought any improvements
Allstate's annual drop test of the iPhone reveals insights on whether the company has made the glass harder than before. It can be seen in the test below that Ceramic Shield glass breaks as easily as prior models. While glass is glass, no matter how strong you make it, it is prone to cracks. We also have to consider that the 'Pro' model grew in size, which compromises the overall integrity of the glass structure.
This year's second-generation Ceramic Shield technology comes with a better ceramic component infusion that increases the durability of the device. Allstate conducted the iPhone 16 Pro Max drop test using a "DropBot" that lets go off the handset from 6 feet. There were various tests that were part of the experiment, including the face drop and then the back. We can also see that the titanium frame of the device also took several hits with visible dents and scuffs.
Ultimately, the iPhone 16 Pro Max gave into the drop tests and was rendered unusable, as the camera housing was shattered as well. It was noted in the video that the haptics worked fine, which means that the device can be repaired. Overall, the device was functional, but it was not safe to do so due to shattered glass. The rear glass took no time to shatter, as the first drop brought shame to Apple's second-generation Ceramic Shield technology.
We have to note that no smartphone has survived the DropBot, and the test only shows that glass is prone to breaking when dropped from a certain height. Note that these are mere tests, and in the real world, the device could survive such drops, considering various factors of how and where the iPhone falls. The iPhone also failed to beat the Galaxy S24 Ultra in the battery drain test, and the device's cameras are also not on par with one of the best in the market, as it took fourth spot in DxoMark's test. You can check out the video of the iPhone 16 Pro Max drop test above. Be sure to stick around for more updates.
About the author: Ali Salman is a technology reporter for Wccftech mobile section with a specialized focus on Apple and the intellectual property that drives mobile innovation. He has cultivated a unique expertise in analyzing and deconstructing complex technology patents, translating dense legal and technical documents into clear, insightful reports on future products.
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