The iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max stand as Apple’s cutting-edge, premium smartphones, but they aren’t immune to imperfections. There have been user reports of rapid overheating during regular use and the ceramic shield back glass shattering very quickly compared to all previous models, which could affect their performance and durability. This article delves deeper into potential explanations for why these devices are going through a meltdown (figuratively, not literally) and shattering like glass.
Glass is Glass, and Glass breaks.
The famous saying by Zack from JerryRigEverything rings true for Apple’s latest offering. At the iPhone 15 launch event this month, Apple unveiled its efforts to improve the repairability of the iPhone 15’s rear glass and reduce the cost of back glass replacement from $549 to $199. However, this change by Apple, aimed at lowering repair costs, has sparked significant backlash about the durability, truly “shattering” expectations.
As evident in the video, when attempting to bend the iPhone 15 Pro Max, the back glass shatters under the initial pressure applied by the thumbs. This is a departure from the durability of most contemporary smartphones. Surprisingly, even in several drop tests, the iPhone 15 Pro Max struggles to survive the very first drop.
YouTuber Phone Repair Guru highlights a possible explanation for this issue. In his video, he demonstrates the notable differences in the back glass of the iPhone 15 Pro compared to the previous year’s iPhone 14. The metal backplate that was formerly integrated into the rear glass is now closely fitted to the actual phone chassis. The absence of any additional support on the back glass this year could be a key factor in its increased vulnerability to breakage.
Also Read: iPhone 15 Pro: The Real Reason Why It’s So Expensive
iPhone 15 Pro : Hot Stuff
To the people complaining about their iPhone 15 heating, Apple clearly mentioned about the heat with ample spark igniting simulations in their official promo videos :^) https://t.co/G8mdwIqbM2 pic.twitter.com/BpQu6GQZRI
— Anurag (@Raaaaaaaaaaaag) September 26, 2023
The iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max have received complaints from a number of users who say that after a few minutes of constant use or while charging, the devices start to overheat. Notably, Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has clarified the situation, saying that the A17 Pro chip’s overheating issues are not directly related to TSMC’s cutting-edge 3-nanometer node.
The insights of Kuo point to a different theory for overheating. According to him, the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max’s thermal system compromises may be the primary contributing factor. Apple’s adoption of a titanium frame for the Pro models and the decrease in the heat dissipation area may be two key factors that negatively impact their thermal efficiency.
It is unclear whether Apple will attempt to resolve the thermal issues via software updates. However, substantial enhancements are unlikely unless Apple considers reducing the A17 Pro’s performance. Ming-Chi Kuo points out that if Apple fails to effectively address this problem, it could have repercussions on the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max shipments.
Scratches and Discoloration
Apple revised its support page in response to reports from numerous users who experienced discoloration issues. “For iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, the oil from your skin might temporarily alter the color of the outside band. Wiping your iPhone with a soft, slightly damp, lint-free cloth will restore the original look.” Could this be Apple’s innovative method to “shine up” their sales with the Polishing Cloth?
Fortunately, this isn’t a permanent issue, which would have been highly disappointing for the users.
Conclusion
Despite Apple’s track record for producing high-quality products, the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max have already fallen short of expectations. It is crucial for Apple to promptly and effectively address these issues to uphold its reputation as a leading smartphone manufacturer.
One thing is certain, whether Apple resolves the initial two problems or not, it’s the consumers who ultimately bear the brunt. Users are better off opting for an additional layer of protection, which includes applying a protective skin to shield their phones from scratches, using a protective case, or, ideally, implementing both of these measures. These proactive steps will contribute significantly to enhancing the longevity and appearance of your devices.
