The iPhone 16 series was launched in September consisting of four models: iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max. The Plus model from the Cupertino-based tech giant packages all the same features as the base model, but in a larger, 6.7-inch form factor. Nearly two months after its launch, YouTube users have been testing the durability of the smartphone through various “scratch” tests and it appears that the handset is performing better than other devices in the market.
iPhone 16 Plus durability test
YouTuber Jack Nelson, popularly known by his channel name JerryRigEverything, has now tested the durability of the new iPhone 16 Plus in a recent YouTube video. The smartphone was tested for seven years of damage. As per their claims, the Plus model performs better than other smartphones, especially on the Mohs hardness scale.
During the scratch test, the iPhone 16 Plus shows a very light scratch at level six when scratched with a razor blade. Only at the seventh level are the deep groves clearly visible. This is in stark contrast to the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, which even at level six shows very prominent lines that can’t be erased. The YouTuber says Apple’s latest generation Ceramic Shield “still feels very smooth”.
However, this is not the case with the rest of the smartphone as its 85 percent recycled aluminum frame gets easily scratched. The side panel of the iPhone 16 Plus, including the power and volume buttons, appears to have some damage from a blade scratch.
When put to the fire test, the smartphone’s display showed no permanent burn marks and its Super Retina XDR display appeared to still be functional. The iPhone 16 Plus also survived the bend test, showing good structural strength with no cracks or fractures visible on its chassis. However, it should be noted that these tests are not a definitive indicator of the ability of these handsets to survive real-world damage and are for reference purposes only.
The YouTuber suggests that it may be even easier to repair than the Pro model, as it has a new electrical de-bonding feature on the back, which loses its capability when current is passed through it. Meanwhile, the iPhone 16 Pro models still feature the traditional adhesive glue pull tab.
