When Apple released the iPhone 11 Pro in 2019, it was hailed as a marvel of modern technology, boasting an impressive array of features, including a powerful A13 Bionic chip, a quad-camera setup, and a stunning 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display. However, beneath the surface of this sleek and sophisticated smartphone lies a potential design flaw that has left many users frustrated and concerned: its penchant for slipping out of their hands.
The Slippery Slope of iPhone 11 Pro Ownership
The moment you hold the iPhone 11 Pro in your hands, you can’t help but be struck by its sleek, glass-covered design. The device’s stainless steel frame and precision-machined glass create a seamless, slippery surface that seems to defy the laws of friction. While this looks and feels great, it also means that the iPhone 11 Pro can be incredibly difficult to grip, especially for those with smaller hands or less-than-stellar hand-eye coordination.
Many users have reported dropping their iPhone 11 Pro within days or even hours of purchasing it, citing the device’s slippery surface as the primary culprit. This is not just a minor annoyance – a dropped iPhone 11 Pro can result in costly repairs, water damage, or even complete device failure. The consequences of a slippery iPhone 11 Pro are very real, and they can have a significant impact on your daily life.
The Science Behind the Slip
So, why is the iPhone 11 Pro so slippery? To understand this, we need to delve into the world of materials science and physics. The iPhone 11 Pro’s glass surface is made of a type of chemically strengthened glass called Gorilla Glass. While this material is incredibly durable and resistant to scratches and cracks, it has a coefficient of friction (COF) that is significantly lower than other materials.
The COF is a measure of the frictional force between two surfaces in contact. A lower COF means that the surfaces will experience less friction, making them more prone to slipping and sliding. In the case of the iPhone 11 Pro, the Gorilla Glass surface has a COF of around 0.1-0.2, which is extremely low compared to other materials like rubber (COF: 0.7-1.5) or wood (COF: 0.5-1.0).
This means that the iPhone 11 Pro is inherently more slippery than other devices with different materials, making it more difficult to grip and hold onto.
The Role of Fingerprints and Oils
Another factor that contributes to the iPhone 11 Pro’s slipperiness is the accumulation of fingerprints and oils on its surface. When you touch the device, your skin leaves behind a trail of oils and residue that can reduce the friction between your hand and the glass surface. This can make the device even more prone to slipping, especially if you have naturally oily skin or tend to handle the device with dirty or sweaty hands.
Combatting the Slip: Tips and Tricks
While the iPhone 11 Pro’s slippery surface may seem like an insurmountable problem, there are several steps you can take to minimize the risk of dropping your device.
Use a case or skin: One of the most effective ways to combat the iPhone 11 Pro’s slipperiness is to use a case or skin that provides extra grip and protection. There are many cases and skins available on the market, ranging from slim, minimalist designs to bulkier, ruggedized options.
Apply a grip-enhancing coating: There are several grip-enhancing coatings available that can be applied to the iPhone 11 Pro’s surface. These coatings, such as ZAGG’s InvisibleShield or BodyGuardz’s Pure 2, use micro-textured surfaces or specialized materials to increase the friction between your hand and the device.
Hold it differently: Changing the way you hold your iPhone 11 Pro can also help reduce the risk of dropping it. Try holding the device with a firmer grip, placing your thumb on the top of the device and your fingers on the bottom. This can help distribute the weight of the device more evenly and provide more stability.
Conclusion: A Slippery Saga with No Clear End
The iPhone 11 Pro’s slippery surface is a design flaw that has left many users frustrated and concerned. While Apple has not officially acknowledged the issue, the problem persists, leaving users to find their own solutions to this slippery saga. By understanding the science behind the slip and taking steps to combat it, you can minimize the risk of dropping your iPhone 11 Pro and ensure that your device remains safe and secure.
Whether or not Apple will address this issue in future iPhone models remains to be seen. One thing is certain, however: the slippery iPhone 11 Pro is a reminder that even the most advanced technology can be brought low by a seemingly minor design flaw.
Is the iPhone 11 Pro’s slippery design a major issue?
The iPhone 11 Pro’s slippery design has been a topic of discussion among many users and reviewers. While it’s not a major issue for everyone, it’s definitely a concern for those who are prone to dropping their phones. The iPhone 11 Pro’s sleek and smooth design can make it difficult to grip, especially for those with smaller hands or who are used to holding their phones with a firm grip. Additionally, the phone’s rounded edges and smooth glass back can make it slippery, increasing the risk of accidental drops.
However, it’s worth noting that the iPhone 11 Pro’s design is not entirely to blame for its slipperiness. The phone’s size and weight also play a role, as it’s slightly heavier and larger than its predecessors. Moreover, users can take steps to mitigate the risk of dropping their iPhone 11 Pro, such as using a phone case or grip accessory, being more mindful when holding the phone, and using a screen protector to improve grip.
What are some ways to prevent the iPhone 11 Pro from slipping out of my hands?
There are several ways to prevent the iPhone 11 Pro from slipping out of your hands. One of the most effective methods is to use a phone case or grip accessory that provides extra grip and texture. These cases and accessories can help improve the phone’s grip in your hand, reducing the risk of accidental drops. Additionally, using a screen protector with a textured finish can also help improve grip. Another option is to use a phone grip or stand that allows you to hold the phone at an angle, making it easier to use and reducing the risk of drops.
It’s also important to be mindful of how you hold your iPhone 11 Pro. Make sure to hold the phone firmly but gently, with a firm grip on the edges and a slight curvature of your fingers around the back. You can also try holding the phone with both hands, especially when taking photos or watching videos. Furthermore, consider setting up a habit of putting your phone down on a flat surface when not in use, rather than leaving it on a couch or bed where it could easily slip off.
Can I use a phone case to make the iPhone 11 Pro less slippery?
Yes, using a phone case is an excellent way to make the iPhone 11 Pro less slippery. There are many phone cases available that are specifically designed to provide extra grip and texture, reducing the risk of accidental drops. Look for cases with textured finishes, such as rubber or silicone, or those with ridges or bumps that can help improve grip. Some popular phone case brands that offer grip-enhancing designs include OtterBox, Speck, and Case-Mate.
When choosing a phone case, make sure to read reviews and check the product description to ensure that it provides the level of grip and protection you need. Some phone cases may also offer additional features, such as shock absorption or water resistance, which can be beneficial in case of accidental drops. Remember to also consider the case’s design and aesthetic, as well as its compatibility with wireless charging and other iPhone 11 Pro features.
How does the iPhone 11 Pro’s size and weight contribute to its slipperiness?
The iPhone 11 Pro’s size and weight can contribute to its slipperiness in several ways. The phone’s larger size and heavier weight can make it more difficult to hold and grip, especially for those with smaller hands or who are used to holding smaller phones. Additionally, the phone’s rounded edges and smooth glass back can make it more prone to slipping out of your hands, especially when combined with its larger size and weight.
Furthermore, the iPhone 11 Pro’s weight distribution can also play a role in its slipperiness. The phone’s battery and internal components are concentrated in the top half of the device, which can cause it to tip forward when held in certain ways. This can make the phone more prone to slipping out of your hands, especially when using it with one hand. However, it’s worth noting that the iPhone 11 Pro’s size and weight are not the only factors contributing to its slipperiness, and other design elements, such as the phone’s material and finish, also play a role.
Can I use a screen protector to improve the iPhone 11 Pro’s grip?
Yes, using a screen protector can help improve the iPhone 11 Pro’s grip. Screen protectors with textured finishes, such as matte or rubberized finishes, can provide extra grip and traction, making it easier to hold the phone. Additionally, screen protectors can also help reduce the risk of fingerprints and smudges, which can make the phone’s screen slippery.
When choosing a screen protector, look for ones that are specifically designed to provide grip-enhancing features. Some popular screen protector brands that offer grip-enhancing designs include Zagg, TechArmor, and Skinomi. Make sure to read reviews and check the product description to ensure that the screen protector provides the level of grip and protection you need. Additionally, consider the screen protector’s compatibility with your phone case, as some cases may not be compatible with certain screen protectors.
Is the iPhone 11 Pro’s slippery design a deal-breaker?
For some users, the iPhone 11 Pro’s slippery design may be a deal-breaker, especially if they are prone to dropping their phones or have experienced issues with slippery phones in the past. However, for many users, the iPhone 11 Pro’s design is not a major concern, and they can take steps to mitigate the risk of accidental drops.
Ultimately, whether the iPhone 11 Pro’s slippery design is a deal-breaker depends on individual preferences and needs. If you are concerned about the phone’s slipperiness, consider using a phone case or grip accessory, being more mindful when holding the phone, and using a screen protector to improve grip. Additionally, weigh the pros and cons of the iPhone 11 Pro’s design against its other features and benefits, such as its camera, display, and performance.
What are some alternatives to the iPhone 11 Pro if I’m concerned about its slipperiness?
If you’re concerned about the iPhone 11 Pro’s slipperiness, there are several alternatives to consider. One option is the iPhone 11, which has a similar design to the iPhone 11 Pro but with a slightly smaller size and lighter weight. Another option is the Samsung Galaxy S21, which has a larger size and heavier weight than the iPhone 11 Pro but offers a more textured back and a wider range of grip-enhancing cases.
Other alternatives include the Google Pixel 4, which has a more textured back and a smaller size than the iPhone 11 Pro, or the OnePlus 8 Pro, which has a larger size and heavier weight than the iPhone 11 Pro but offers a more textured back and a wider range of grip-enhancing cases. Ultimately, the best alternative will depend on your individual needs and preferences, as well as your budget and ecosystem requirements.