Following up on a previous story in which a number of users found their 11-inch and 12.9-inch 2018 iPad Pro tablets bending under only moderate force, Apple has stated that a slight bend isn’t out of the ordinary.
Apple stated that some 2018 iPad Pro models are indeed shipping with a “very slight bend in the aluminum chassis,” which is a “side effect of the manufacturing process” that is not expected to worsen over time or negatively effect the iPad’s performance “in any practical way.”
The company says that the bend itself is caused by a cooling process involving the iPad Pro’s metal and plastic components during manufacturing and is not considered to be a defect.
Apple has also stated that this is an issue that is essentially present right out of the box that doesn’t appear to show up over time. The company has stated that that concerns over the iPad Pro’s “structural rigidity” are “unfounded” and that it “stands by the product.” Apple, in turn, has not experienced higher-than-normal return rates for the 2018 iPad Pro.
It’s been suggested that users “shouldn’t have any trouble exchanging or returning” an iPad Pro at an Apple Store, but that statement likely only applies to devices that are still under the return policy. Apple typically does not replace devices experiencing issues that are not considered manufacturing defects, so it’s not entirely clear if those with bent tablets outside of the return period will be able to get replacements.
Apple underwent significant consumer outcry over the “Bendgate” controversy when the iPhone 6 Plus was released, a number of users stating the handset bent with regular use. Apple corrected the issue with later iPhone models.
Please let us know if you’ve seen this issue with your 2018 iPad Pro and stay tuned for additional details as they become available.