Apple is hoping to avoid another Bendgate controversy by using a new aluminum shell for the iPhone 6s that’s twice as strong as the iPhone 6 version. We got our first look at the super-strong iPhone 6s last week, when Lewis Hilsenteger got his hands on a leaked shell that indicates Apple will use series 7000 aluminum for the upcoming model.
Hilsenteger’s latest video puts the new and improved iPhone 6s aluminum frame to the bend test. Only this time, instead of using his bare hands like he did with the original Bendgate video, Hilsenteger uses sophisticated equipment to give us extra insight into the new case’s super strength.
After scanning the new aluminum shell with an XRF analyzer, Hilsenteger discovered that Apple has added zinc to the aluminum alloy it makes the iPhone case with. This appears to confirm that Apple is indeed using the 7000 series aluminum, verses the 6000 series used for the iPhone 6.
The new case was tested to be twice as strong as the iPhone 6 rear shell thanks to the new aluminum, which is also used in the aerospace industry. Because series 7000 aluminum is harder to come by than series 6000, the super-strong iPhone 6s shell could cost Apple up to five times more than the iPhone 6 version.
Another drawback is that series 7000 aluminum is also more susceptible to corrosion. To combat the corrosion, it appears Apple has added an extra-thick anodized layer.
Watch the iPhone 6s shell go head-to-head with the iPhone 6 in this new bend test:
