Apple to test iPhone 16 reliability in extreme conditions at special lab

SHENZHEN: Apple is poised to open a new applied research lab in Shenzhen, aimed at improving the quality and reliability of its flagship products, according to Shenzhen Daily.

The special facility will play a pivotal role in advancing Apple’s research capabilities, with a particular focus on reliability and quality testing.

It will be dedicated to evaluating new materials and production techniques, ensuring that key products such as the iPhone, iPad, and Apple Vision Pro can endure extreme conditions, from intense physical activity to severe temperatures.

This move comes at a crucial time as Apple gears up for the anticipated release of its iPhone 16 lineup, expected in the autumn.

Shenzhen’s selection for the lab is strategic, given its proximity to many of Apple’s suppliers. The company first revealed plans for the new research centre in March. While Apple has been diversifying its production to other countries like Vietnam and India, China remains a vital manufacturing hub for the company.

The Shenzhen lab is part of a broader expansion strategy, which includes additional research and development centres in Beijing, Shanghai, and Suzhou. Apple has committed over 1 billion yuan (approximately $138 million) to these new facilities.

Bloomberg reports that Apple’s Chief Operating Officer, Jeff Williams, recently visited Shenzhen to discuss investment and collaboration strategies. During his visit, Williams underscored the significant role Shenzhen plays in Apple’s market strategy.

His trip also included meetings with senior Chinese officials in Beijing, a visit to an Apple Store in the Wangfujing shopping district, a screening of a film shot on the iPhone 15 Pro Max, and discussions with the entertainment company Migu about its app developed for the Apple Vision Pro.

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