Yes, clear Apple cases, particularly those made from certain materials, can turn yellow over time.
Why Clear Phone Cases Turn Yellow
According to sources, most clear phone cases are made of Polyurethane. This material is known to undergo a process called oxidation when exposed to UV light. This exposure can come from direct sunlight or even from the UV radiation emitted by regular light sources.
When Polyurethane is exposed to UV rays, its chemical structure can change, leading to a visible yellowing or browning effect on the material. This is a common issue with many clear plastic or silicone-based phone cases.
Which Cases Are Affected?
This yellowing phenomenon is most noticeable and commonly discussed in the context of clear or transparent cases. Solid-color cases, including those made by Apple, do not typically exhibit this type of yellowing effect, although they may show wear or fading over time depending on the material.
Understanding Apple's Warranty
While yellowing is a common characteristic of clear case materials like Polyurethane when exposed to UV light, it's worth noting Apple's warranty. Apple does offer a one-year standard manufacturer warranty on their cases that covers manufacturer's defects. Whether yellowing is considered a manufacturer's defect under this warranty would depend on the specific circumstances and Apple's assessment, but it's important to be aware of the warranty terms.
Factors that can contribute to faster yellowing include:
- High levels of exposure to direct sunlight
- Exposure to other sources of UV light
- Certain chemicals or substances the case comes into contact with (though UV exposure is the primary driver for Polyurethane)
In summary, if you have a clear Apple case, you may notice it turning yellow over time due to the natural reaction of materials like Polyurethane to UV light exposure.
