Scratch-resistant iPhones coming soon? Apple files for Spatial Composites patent

Future Apple devices could be scratch-resistant

As per the patent document, the company is planning to design a scratch-resistant back panel by using abrasion-resistant materials. This will be incorporated into the chassis of an iPhone to make it stronger. The document lists Stephen Lynch, Teodor Dabov, and Christopher Prest as the inventor of Spatial Composites. All of them are Apple engineers.

In the patent document, Apple explains various materials used in manufacturing smartphones. The company says that plastic doesn’t interfere with radio connectivity but is scratch-resistant, while metal is scratch-resistant but has radio connectivity issues. Then there is ceramic, which is scratch-resistant but interferes with connectivity. This is also not a strong material.

What is Spatial Composites material?

Spatial Composites are said to be metal and ceramic composites with scratch-resistant properties, minimal interference, and superior durability. According to the patent, the resulting substrate material will feature a moldable matrix with these metal and ceramic located between 10 and 100 microns apart.

Apple currently uses Crystal Shield technology to prevent scratches on the display. With the new Spatial Composite, the back panel will also be protected as well. As of now, Apple has only patented the composite so things might take time before the iPhone with Spatial Composite back panel is made.