Apple has released new behind-the-scenes footage showing the durability testing process for the iPhone Air and iPhone 17 series. The company has long emphasized the strength of its devices, but these new clips demonstrate how far Apple is going to ensure its latest iPhones are built to last in real-world conditions. The footage comes shortly after the launch of the iPhone 17 lineup and the introduction of the new iPhone Air, underscoring Apple’s push to reassure customers about long-term reliability.
The tests, detailed by Tom’s Guide, show the iPhone Air withstanding up to 130 pounds of pressure in a bend test, highlighting the strength of its aluminum frame and lightweight design. Despite being positioned as a more affordable option, the iPhone Air still meets Apple’s rigorous standards for durability. For the flagship iPhone 17 series, Apple highlighted additional tests such as repeated drop simulations, screen impact checks, and water resistance validation. These tests are designed to replicate years of daily wear, ensuring that devices can endure the accidental drops, spills, and bends that come with everyday use.
This focus on durability reflects Apple’s lessons from the past. Older iPhones, such as the iPhone 6, were criticized for structural weaknesses that became widely known as “Bendgate.” Since then, Apple has consistently upgraded its materials, moving to Ceramic Shield glass, aerospace-grade aluminum, and more recently, titanium frames on premium Pro models. The iPhone 17 lineup builds on these advancements with refined engineering that balances thinness with strength, while the iPhone Air proves that cost-conscious models can still deliver robust performance and durability.
The company’s emphasis on testing also shows its broader marketing strategy. By giving the public a look at internal durability trials, Apple positions the iPhone Air and iPhone 17 as not just high-performance devices but also resilient companions for daily life. For users weighing the difference between the premium iPhone 17 Pro and the more affordable iPhone Air, durability may be a deciding factor. The reassurance that both models undergo the same bend, drop, and environmental tests reinforces Apple’s message that all iPhones are built to last.
Durability also ties into Apple’s long-term customer value strategy. By showcasing how resilient these devices are, Apple emphasizes that users can keep their phones for years without concerns about structural weakness or premature failure. This approach complements initiatives like AppleCare+, where protection plans are paired with strong device engineering to minimize the risk of costly repairs. For buyers considering upgrades, knowing that the iPhone Air and iPhone 17 series both carry the same commitment to durability adds confidence to their decision.
The durability clips may also influence comparisons with competitors such as Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra or Google’s Pixel 10 Pro XL. While rival devices also feature high-quality materials, Apple’s decision to publicize its internal tests helps distinguish its approach. The message is clear: whether you choose the slim iPhone Air or the powerful iPhone 17 Pro Max, you are buying a device engineered to withstand pressure, drops, and environmental stress.
Overall, Apple’s decision to highlight durability in the iPhone Air and iPhone 17 series reinforces a narrative that goes beyond performance specs. These devices are not only faster and more capable but also designed to stay reliable for years, giving users peace of mind that their investment is protected. For anyone considering whether the iPhone Air’s lighter and cheaper design compromises strength, the bend test and drop simulations provide a clear answer – it is built to last.
