The Chamfer that Changed the World
Cory Cetkovic
Chances are you’ve heard of DC’s “Watergate,” the NFL’s “Deflategate” or New Jersey’s “Bridgegate,” but what about “Scuffgate”? When Apple introduced the iPhone 5 it was a breakthrough in smartphone technology, but as the device started to make its way into the hands of users, some were finding scuffs on the phone exterior fresh out of the box, largely on the chamfered edges. The situation caused quite a stir, with the Internet and those in the press dubbing it “Scuffgate.” Built with lighter aluminum for
the first time, technology experts posited that the natural softness of the metal was to blame, but it was hard to believe such widespread issues happened during packaging or shipping. This led others to point to potential deficiencies in the machining process. It was maybe the most talked-about chamfered edge ever. In fact, the issue made its way to the very top of the Apple chain of command . . . somewhat amazingly, a small chamfered edge had become a critical priority
It all began with “Scuffgate,” a small chamfered edge that became a critical pri- ority and evolved into a growing demand for fine finishes and feel in a world of myriad applications that only precision chamfering can deliver.
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