Decoding iPhone 11's Material: Gorilla Glass 6 and More

iPhone 11, a model known for its advanced materials and engineering, has always captivated the tech community with its durable and sleek design. A crucial component of this esteemed device is its protective glass. Could it be Gorilla Glass 6, or is it something else entirely? Let's delve into the fascinating journey of Gorilla Glass and how its evolution has brought us to the current standard of durability in smartphones.

The History of Gorilla Glass

The story of Gorilla Glass is one of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement. As smartphones began to gain widespread popularity, the need for a more robust and durable screen material became apparent. In the early days of smartphone manufacturing, glass, much like its metal counterparts, was primarily used in commercial and industrial applications. However, the significance of Gorilla Glass in the smartphone industry cannot be overstated.

Origins of Gorilla Glass

The development of Gorilla Glass began in 1960 as part of a project known as Chemcor. Initially, the material was used in various industries, from automotive to pharmaceuticals, due to its lightweight and durable qualities. However, it was during the mid-2000s that Gorilla Glass truly began its transformation into the everyday technology essential it is today.

In 2005, Corning, the company responsible for creating Gorilla Glass, started experimenting with chemically strengthened glass specifically for consumer electronics. This move was driven by a request from none other than Apple, who was looking for a durable yet thin glass for their new iPhone. This partnership quickly turned Gorilla Glass into a household name, with Apple's iPhone being one of the pioneering products to use this groundbreaking material.

The journey of Gorilla Glass is tied to Apple's vision for a more robust smartphone experience. By 2017, five billion devices worldwide were equipped with Gorilla Glass, a testament to its widespread acceptance and reliability.

iPhone 11 and Gorilla Glass 6

Fast forward to 2019, the iPhone 11 series introduced a new level of durability with its Gorilla Glass 6. This advancement in material science highlights the ongoing efforts to improve the safety and functionality of smartphones. But what exactly does Gorilla Glass 6 entail, and how does it compare to previous generations?

Gorilla Glass 6 Overview

Gorilla Glass 6 is recognized for its enhanced scratch resistance and improved durability. According to its specifications, the glass has a hardness of level 6, meaning it can withstand deeper scratches and marks compared to previous iterations. However, it's important to note that while Gorilla Glass 6 is more durable, it still isn't completely invulnerable to scratches or falls.

Made with a blend of silicon oxide and rare earth elements, Gorilla Glass 6 undergoes a process called ion exchange. This process involves soaking the glass in a molten salt bath, which results in an outer layer of durable material that protects the inner structure. This layer is thicker and more resilient than the previous iterations, making Gorilla Glass 6 more resistant to everyday wear and tear.

Contradictions in Durability Claims

Despite the advancements in Gorilla Glass 6, there is an ongoing debate about the actual durability of smartphones made with this material. Popular tech YouTuber JerryRigEverything, known for his rigorous testing of smartphone durability, has consistently highlighted the limitations of such materials. In his tests, even with the latest iterations of Gorilla Glass, phones can still be damaged by minor drops or scratches.

Testing and Reality

According to JerryRigEverything, the perception of durability in Gorilla Glass 6 smartphones can be misleading. The process of increasing the plastic content to enhance durability can actually make the glass more susceptible to scratches and other forms of damage. The increase in plastic content makes the glass more flexible and less likely to shatter, but it also makes it more prone to micro Scratches and surface damage.

Moreover, the myth that "glass is glass and glass breaks" is often cited. While Gorilla Glass 6 has made significant improvements in scratch resistance and durability, it is not unbreakable. The reality is that any glass, regardless of its manufacturer or grade, can be damaged by sufficient force or impact.

Conclusion

The materials used in smartphone manufacturing, particularly Gorilla Glass 6, represent a significant advancement in the quest for durability and reliability. However, it's crucial to understand that no material can guarantee invincibility. While the iPhone 11 and its Gorilla Glass 6 are undoubtedly more durable than their predecessors, they are not immune to damage. As technology continues to evolve, so too will the materials and designs used in smartphones, promising even greater advancements in the future.