Apple, with the launch of the new iPhone 12 models, introduced a new protective layer for the OLED displays of the current and future iPhones. This glass + ceramic layer has been developed by Apple in partnership with Corning and here is all you need to know about it.

Dubbed the Ceramic Shield, this protective layer covers the front of every iPhone 12 model this year, from the iPhone 12 mini to the Phone 12 Pro Max. Apple’s Materials Engineering team worked closely with Corning to come up with this unique protective layer for the iPhones.

Nanoscale Ceramic Crystals

Ceramic Shield, as the company mentions, is not glass. Rather, it is an integrated layer of nano-ceramic crystals that are baked right into the front OLED panels of the devices. This enabled the engineering team to develop a strong and clear protective layer in order to make the iPhones durable than ever. Integrated Nano-Ceramic Crystals | Image Courtesy: Apple

Apart from making the Ceramic Shield tough and clear, Apple says they also wanted to make it scratch-resistant. So, the company also used a “dual ion-exchange process” to enable the shield to resist nicks and scratches from everyday use.