In September, the iPhone 16 series was released, which includes four models: iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max. The Plus model from the Cupertino tech giant packs all the same features as the base model, but in a larger 6.7-inch form factor. Almost two months after its debut, YouTubers have been testing the smartphone’s durability through various scratch tests, and it seems the phone has held up better than other devices on the market.
iPhone 16 Plus durability test
YouTuber Zach Nelson, popularly known by his channel name JerryRigEverything, has now tested the new iPhone 16 Plus for its durability in a recent YouTube video. The smartphone was checked for damage for seven years. According to him, the Plus model outperforms other smartphones, especially on the Mohs hardness scale.
In the scratch test, the iPhone 16 Plus shows very mild scratches at level six when scratched with a razor blade. Deeper groves clearly appear only at the seventh level. This is in stark contrast to the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, which showed very noticeable lines even at level six that couldn’t be erased. A YouTuber says Apple’s latest generation of Ceramic Shield is “still very smooth.”
That’s not the case for the rest of the smartphone, however, as its aluminum frame, which is made up of 85 percent recycled aluminum, scratches easily. The side panels, including the power and volume buttons on the iPhone 16 Plus, have visible damage with scratches.
During the fire test, the smartphone’s display showed no permanent burn marks and the Super Retina XDR display still worked. The iPhone 16 Plus also passed the bend test, showing good structural strength with no visible cracks or breaks in its body. However, it should be noted that these tests are not a definitive measure of the ability of these phones to withstand real damage and are for reference purposes only.
The YouTuber suggests that it may even be easier to repair than the Pro models, thanks to a new electrical disconnect on the back that loses its properties when current is passed through it. Meanwhile, the iPhone 16 Pro models still have the traditional sticky adhesive protrusions.