Future Apple iPhones could potentially feature scratch and abrasion-resistant properties, according to recent reports. Patently Apple has revealed that the renowned tech giant based in Cupertino has been granted a new patent by the US Patent and Trademark Office for a material known as ‘Spatial Composites’. This development is particularly significant since Apple’s premium devices, including iPhones, iPads, Apple Watches, and Macs, are often susceptible to scratches. As a result, users typically resort to protective cases, which unfortunately conceal the aesthetic appeal of the devices. However, with the introduction of Spatial Composites, Apple aims to address this issue by creating a scratch-resistant back panel, allowing users to enjoy their devices without the need for bulky or unsightly cases. Let’s delve into the details of what exactly Spatial Composite entails.
Apple’s Solution: Introducing Spatial Composites for Scratch-Resistant iPhones
The patent documentation outlines Apple‘s plan to manufacture a scratch-resistant back panel by utilizing abrasion-resistant materials that can be incorporated into the chassis of an iPhone, thereby enhancing its overall strength. The patent credits Christopher Prest, Stephen Lynch, and Teodor Dabov, all of whom are Apple engineers, as the inventors behind Spatial Composites.
Apple’s patent number 11,678,445 B2 provides further insights into the various materials used in smartphone manufacturing, focusing on their respective scratch-resistance and electromagnetic shielding capabilities. Plastic, for instance, does not interfere with radio connectivity but is less scratch-resistant. On the other hand, metal is highly resistant to scratches but can disrupt radio connectivity. Lastly, ceramic offers scratch-resistant properties without interfering with connectivity, but it lacks durability.
The patent then introduces the concept of ‘Spatial Composites,’ which is described as a composite material combining metal and ceramic elements with scratch-resistant properties, superior durability, and minimal interference. According to the patent, the resulting substrate material will possess a moldable matrix, with the metal and ceramic components placed at a distance of 10 to 100 microns apart. Apple already employs Crystal Shield technology to protect displays from scratches, and with the introduction of Spatial Composites, the company aims to extend this protection to the back panel, ensuring that iPhones maintain a fresh and unblemished appearance even after prolonged use.
However, it’s important to note that, at present, Apple has solely patented the composite material and proposed its implementation. It may take several years before the first iPhone featuring a Spatial Composite back panel hits the market. In the meantime, iPhone users are advised to utilize protective covers in order to preserve the pristine condition of their devices.
In conclusion, Apple’s latest patent for Spatial Composites showcases the company’s commitment to enhancing the durability and aesthetics of its devices. By developing a scratch-resistant back panel, Apple aims to eliminate the need for bulky protective cases, allowing users to fully appreciate the design and craftsmanship of their iPhones. Although the introduction of Spatial Composite technology may be a few years away, it holds the promise of revolutionizing the way we interact with and protect our cherished Apple devices.