Known for its culture of secrecy, Apple occasionally gives access to its behind-the-scenes work, offering a unique insight into how it works.
Apple, 200 torture centers for its hardware££££
Following WWDC in June 2025, the company allowed a select few to enter one of its 200 research centers where more than 10,000 iPhones (among other Apple products) are tested before the launch of a new range on the market. Counterpoint was invited and reports on some of the torture methods used by Apple to test the robustness of its devices.
Focus on Apple's robustness and aging tests££££
In this place, Apple recreates the worst scenarios that your iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch or other device can experience in real life, long before mischievous YouTubers try it to accumulate views: exposure to liquids and falls in particular. Here are some examples observed in this laboratory: exposure to fine particles (salt, desert sand, etc.) for dozens of hours, exposure to strong light, high-pressure water jets, vibrations, drops from several heights and precise angles, on various surfaces... Some tests for AirPods earphones even involve the creation of artificial sweat and earwax. Yum.
Apple, king of second-hand and refurbished products££££
As a result, Apple products have an exemplary lifespan, explaining why they are the champions of the second-hand and refurbished markets. 56% of the refurbished smartphone market is occupied by iPhones, which retain 40% more value than Android models.
