The iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max have been generating significant buzz in the tech world. Hailed as the "strongest" iPhones ever, they boast Grade 5 titanium frames, a first for the iPhone line. However, early durability tests have raised questions about their toughness compared to their stainless steel predecessors.
Apple's Durability Leap
Apple took a bold step by introducing Grade 5 titanium frames in the 15 Pro series, replacing the stainless steel frames of the 14 Pro series. They also incorporated a new internal aluminum plate and slight beveling on these frames. These changes promised a lighter device with improved handling experience.
According to Apple, this upgrade aimed to enhance the phone's durability. But do these claims hold up under scrutiny?
The Grade 5 Titanium Debate
Zach Nelson, the host of the popular tech channel JerryRigEverything, attempted to settle the Grade 5 titanium debate by dissecting the new frame in a YouTube video. His analysis suggested that there is indeed Grade 5 titanium in the new frames, with an estimated value of about US$30 per device.
However, despite this alleged upgrade, doubts have emerged regarding the device's overall robustness.
Early Drop Test Results
A growing number of tech vloggers, including MobileReviewsEh, conducted comprehensive drop tests on the iPhone 15 Pro. Surprisingly, the results indicate that the new model may not be as durable as expected. It exhibited scuffs, scratches, and even cracks in some cases, raising concerns among Apple enthusiasts.
An Extreme Case
One particularly extreme case involved Sam Kohl from AppleTrack, who subjected both the iPhone 15 Pro and the 14 Pro to a rigorous test on the cobblestone streets of Sydney, Australia. Shockingly, the newer model was the first to succumb to the harsh conditions, even losing its rear camera glass. Kohl's disappointment led him to label it as "not the durable titanium phone that I was promised."
Bend Testing
The debate over the iPhone 15 Pro's durability didn't stop at drop tests. JerryRigEverything also conducted bend tests, a standard assessment of a phone's structural integrity. Surprisingly, the 15 Pro Max's rear panel cracked more easily than expected, drawing unfavorable comparisons to the Motorola Razr Plus cover display.
Interestingly, the smaller iPhone 15 Pro did not exhibit the same vulnerability in bend tests.
Conclusion: Is It Truly Durable?
As these early drop and bend tests continue to circulate, questions surround Apple's claims of a durability-focused design. While some tests suggest vulnerability, others indicate that the 15 Pro might still be the more resilient iPhone in certain scenarios.
For instance, an unconventional "kettlebell test" where the phone was subjected to repeated impacts showed unexpected results.
In conclusion, the iPhone 15 Pro's durability is a topic of debate in the tech community. While initial tests have raised concerns, more comprehensive analyses and real-world use cases are needed to determine if it lives up to its reputation as the "strongest" iPhone ever.
