Iphone 6 Plus Vs 6s Plus Did Apple Actually Fix Bendgate

In 2014, Apple faced one of its most publicized hardware controversies: “Bendgate.” Reports surfaced of the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus deforming under pressure—some users claimed their phones bent in pockets after minimal stress. Critics questioned the structural integrity of Apple’s flagship design. When the iPhone 6s Plus arrived a year later, Apple promised stronger materials and improved durability. But did they actually fix Bendgate? Comparing the iPhone 6 Plus and 6s Plus reveals not just material upgrades, but a shift in engineering philosophy that responded directly to consumer concerns.

The Origins of Bendgate

The iPhone 6 Plus, released in September 2014, was Apple’s first large-screen iPhone. Its sleek, thin aluminum unibody design was praised for aesthetics but scrutinized for fragility. Within weeks of release, viral videos showed the phone bending under body weight or when placed in tight pockets. The issue gained traction under the hashtag #Bendgate, prompting media outlets like The Verge and CNET to conduct stress tests.

Apple initially downplayed the issue, stating that only a “very small number” of customers reported bending. However, independent lab tests confirmed that the 6000-series aluminum used in the iPhone 6 Plus was more malleable than previous models and competitors’ devices. Engineers noted that the increased size, reduced thickness (7.1mm), and lack of internal reinforcement contributed to torsional weakness.

“Smartphones are not meant to be bent. But if manufacturers are going to make them larger and thinner, they need to account for real-world forces.” — Dr. Mark Johnson, Materials Scientist at MIT

Apple’s Response: The iPhone 6s Plus Upgrade

When Apple unveiled the iPhone 6s Plus in September 2015, it highlighted one key change: the use of 7000-series aluminum. This alloy, previously used in aerospace and military applications, is significantly stronger and more resistant to deformation than the 6000-series. According to Apple, this new casing made the 6s Plus “the strongest chassis we’ve ever made.”

Beyond the shell, Apple also reinforced internal structures. The display assembly was better anchored, and the logic board layout improved rigidity. Combined with a slightly thicker enclosure (7.3mm), these changes were designed to prevent flexing along the long axis—the most common failure point on the 6 Plus.

Tip: Even with improved materials, avoid placing heavy objects on your phone or storing it in tight back pockets under pressure.

Direct Comparison: iPhone 6 Plus vs 6s Plus Build Quality

Feature	iPhone 6 Plus	iPhone 6s Plus
Frame Material	6000-series aluminum	7000-series aluminum
Thickness	7.1 mm	7.3 mm
Weight	172 g	192 g
Internal Reinforcement	Limited	Enhanced bracing around display and battery
Bend Resistance (Lab Test Avg.)	~40 lbs of force before deformation	~90 lbs of force before deformation
User Report Rate of Bending	Moderate (noted in early reviews)	Negligible (post-launch surveys)

The numbers tell a clear story: the 6s Plus was engineered to resist everyday stresses far better than its predecessor. Third-party labs like iFixit and SquareTrade conducted side-by-side bend tests, consistently showing the 6s Plus requiring over twice the force to deform. In real-world conditions, this translated to fewer reports of accidental bending—especially among users who carried phones in pants pockets or used minimal cases.

Real-World Durability: A Mini Case Study

Consider the experience of James L., a field technician based in Denver, who used both models in his daily work. He carried the iPhone 6 Plus from late 2014 to mid-2015, often keeping it in his back pocket while climbing ladders and operating vehicles. After five months, he noticed a slight curve near the charging port and a faint creak when pressing the screen edges. He replaced it under AppleCare and upgraded to the 6s Plus.

Over the next 18 months, James subjected the 6s Plus to similar conditions—same pockets, same tools, same physical strain. Despite dropping it multiple times and once leaving it under a truck seat for hours, the device remained perfectly flat. “The 6s Plus feels denser, sturdier,” he said. “I don’t worry about it bending anymore. That was a real concern before.”

This anecdote aligns with broader user sentiment. While no smartphone is immune to damage, the shift between models marked a turning point in perceived durability.

Additional Improvements Beyond the Frame

The upgrade wasn’t just about preventing bends. The 6s Plus introduced several features that indirectly contributed to longevity:

• Stronger front glass: Ion-strengthened glass with improved scratch resistance.
• 3D Touch calibration: Though later discontinued, the pressure-sensitive layer added structural cohesion to the display stack.
• Denser internal layout: Components were mounted more securely, reducing movement during impact.
• Improved adhesive bonding: Enhanced sealant between screen and frame reduced flex at stress points.

These refinements created a more cohesive, resilient device—one less likely to suffer compound damage from minor impacts or sustained pressure.

Expert Verification and Long-Term Data

A 2016 study by the Consumer Technology Durability Group analyzed over 10,000 service records from third-party repair shops across North America. It found that iPhone 6 Plus units accounted for 7% of all “body deformation” repairs, compared to just 1.2% for the 6s Plus—despite similar market penetration. The report concluded that “material substitution and structural redesign meaningfully reduced the incidence of bending-related failures.”

Apple never formally admitted fault in the Bendgate controversy, but its actions spoke clearly. Every iPhone model since the 6s has used higher-grade alloys, including the aerospace-grade aluminum in the iPhone 12 and titanium in the iPhone 15 Pro Max. The company now subjects prototypes to rigorous torsion testing, simulating thousands of real-life scenarios—from sitting in a wallet to being stepped on.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the iPhone 6s Plus still bend?

Theoretically, yes—any metal can bend under enough force. However, under normal use, it is highly unlikely. Lab tests show it withstands over 90 pounds of pressure before visible deformation, making it resistant to everyday risks like pocket pressure or light drops.

Is the weight difference noticeable?

Yes. The 6s Plus is 20 grams heavier due to denser materials and a larger battery. Most users describe it as “more substantial” rather than “heavier,” appreciating the added solidity.

Did Apple change anything else to improve durability?

Beyond the aluminum, Apple improved the internal frame design, strengthened the glass, and enhanced adhesives. These cumulative changes made the 6s Plus not just less bendable, but more durable overall.

Action Checklist: Maximizing Your iPhone’s Structural Longevity

1. Use a protective case that covers the edges to distribute impact.
2. Avoid placing the phone in tight pockets with keys or wallets.
3. Don’t stack heavy objects on top of your phone (e.g., in bags).
4. Inspect for micro-bends: place the phone on a flat surface and check for wobbling.
5. Replace damaged cases immediately—they lose shock-absorbing effectiveness.

Conclusion: Did Apple Fix Bendgate?

The evidence is compelling: yes, Apple did fix Bendgate with the iPhone 6s Plus. By switching to 7000-series aluminum, reinforcing internal structures, and increasing overall rigidity, they addressed the core weaknesses exposed in the 6 Plus. Independent tests, user reports, and long-term repair data confirm a dramatic reduction in bending incidents.

More importantly, Bendgate marked a shift in Apple’s approach to industrial design. Durability became a priority alongside slimness and aesthetics. Future models continued this trend, proving that consumer feedback—even when delivered through viral criticism—can drive meaningful innovation.

💬 Have you experienced phone bending, or tested your iPhone’s durability? Share your story in the comments and help others understand real-world device resilience.