Apple engraves every iPhone screen with unique QR codes that allow the company to keep track of every defective display unit that suppliers discard, according to a paywalled report from The Information.
According to the report, Apple devised this system in a bid to reduce waste and control production costs. Apple was reportedly able to save “hundreds of millions of dollars” on manufacturing since the intricate system was put in place in 2020, the report adds.
The system relies on two microscopic QR codes that are laser-engraved on the iPhone display‘s cover glass. Per the report, one code is described as being the size of a “grain of sand,” while the other is no bigger than the “tip of a crayon.” These codes are etched at different manufacturing stages, where the first code can only be seen with special equipment while the other is etched on the back side of the glass on the display bezel.
Discover new horizons, always connected with eSIM
Travel the world stress and hassle-free with the best eSIM service available. Enjoy unlimited data, 5G speeds, and global coverage for affordable prices with Holafly. And, enjoy an exclusive 5% discount.
Laser scanning equipment was installed by Apple at two of its iPhone display cover glass suppliers – Biel Crystal and Lens Technology. The system has gone through a few iterations as engineers initially found that direct laser-etching made the glass crack more easily during drop tests. Engineers later settled on a novel system that relied on microscopic lenses coupled with ring lights that do not affect the glass’s strength and durability.
The system quickly proved its worth as the number of defective glass covers dropped from three in every 10 units to just 1 in every 10 pieces. As Apple also pays for faulty parts, the QR code system has helped the company improve its margins by paying less for faulty parts.
