With thousands of varieties of iPhone cases filling marketplaces, Apple is attempting to clamp down on poorly produced cases by setting a standard: the products must withstand being dropped 1m times.
Following the launch of the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus, Apple released its industry standard for companies producing products that can be used with Apple products, known as Made for iPhone (MFi).
Aside from needing to withstand more drops than you’ll ever achieve in a lifetime, the phone must also be able to withstand a drop from a height of at least 2 feet, while the case should also provide a buffer of at least 1mm between the phone’s screen and the edge of the case.
According to 9to5Mac, Apple said this can be achieved either through a full screen cover, or one where the rim is protruding from the phone itself. For their troubles, manufacturers will receive the official Apple stamp of approval on the packaging.
The MFi programme also extends to a host of other accessories, including its Lightning wire connector, all of which will receive Apple’s technical assistance.
Perhaps the best outcome of the MFi standard is the company’s agreement to better promote environmental practices within its business by banning a host of different chemicals that were previously used in the manufacturing process, particularly formaldehyde, PFOS, PFOA, PBDE, PBB, and phthalates.
Earlier this year, Greenpeace gave Apple the green stamp of approval for being the most environmentally friendly major tech company in the world.
iPhone cases image via Shutterstock
