iPhone 16 Pro Max Fails New Drop Test: Rear Ceramic Shield Shatters on First Impact

The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro models bring a series of updates both inside and out, with Apple focusing on making these devices more repairable than before. For example, one test revealed that the battery replacement process for the iPhone 16 takes less than 90 seconds. However, despite improvements, the Ceramic Shield glass used on both the front and back still proves vulnerable to cracking. In a recent drop test, the iPhone 16 Pro Max failed to hold up under pressure.

Drop Test Results Reveal Flaws in the iPhone 16 Pro Max’s Ceramic Shield

Allstate’s annual drop test offers insights into whether Apple’s second-generation Ceramic Shield technology has made any real advancements in durability. According to the test, the Ceramic Shield glass on the iPhone 16 Pro Max is just as prone to breaking as previous models. While it’s well known that glass can crack regardless of how strong it’s made, the larger size of the Pro Max model may further weaken the overall structural integrity of the device.

Second-Generation Ceramic Shield and the Titanium Frame Struggles to Withstand Impact

Apple’s second-generation Ceramic Shield technology features enhanced ceramic infusions designed to increase durability. Despite this, Allstate’s DropBot, which drops the handset from 6 feet, revealed that both the front and back glass shattered on the iPhone 16 Pro Max. Additionally, the titanium frame showed visible dents and scuffs from the impact.

Ultimately, the drop rendered the device unusable, with damage to the camera housing as well. Although some functionalities, like the haptics, continued to work, the shattered glass made it unsafe to handle. This calls into question whether Apple’s latest Ceramic Shield technology truly offers a meaningful upgrade in durability.

No Smartphone Has Survived the DropBot – iPhone 16 Pro Max is No Exception

It’s important to note that no smartphone has successfully survived the DropBot’s rigorous testing, as glass tends to break when dropped from significant heights. These tests don’t necessarily reflect real-world scenarios, where various factors like the angle and surface of the fall could alter the outcome. However, the iPhone 16 Pro Max’s failure in this drop test aligns with other recent shortcomings. The device failed to outlast the Galaxy S24 Ultra in battery tests and placed fourth in DxOMark’s camera rankings.

You can check out the drop test video for the iPhone 16 Pro Max in the link above.