Apple's recent shift to softer aluminum in the iPhone 17 Pro has sparked numerous complaints about dents and scratches appearing from everyday use. While Apple experiments with design, Oppo is taking a bold step forward, introducing Apex Guard — an advanced durability and longevity system designed to redefine smartphone resilience.
Introducing Apex Guard: Oppo’s Commitment to Quality
Grus Shan, Director of Manufacturing at Oppo, emphasizes, “Quality is the foundation of everything. Through continuous breakthroughs in quality, Oppo is committed to protecting the freedom of every user on their journey in life. Quality isn't just a feature, it's the freedom to Make Your Moment.” (November 2025)
Apex Guard is a comprehensive technology suite focused not only on physical toughness but also on long-term performance and reliability. The combination of advanced materials and cutting-edge design sets a new standard for what users can expect from a smartphone.
Materials and Design Innovation
The backbone of Apex Guard includes Ultra-High-Strength Steel paired with aerospace-grade AM04 aluminum, fortified with structural reinforcements such as Armour Shield. These enhancements help devices withstand drops, spills, and everyday wear and tear like never before.
Durability is complemented by advanced battery technology with the Silicon-Carbon Battery, utilizing customized spherical silicon-carbon materials that not only enhance safety but also extend battery life by up to 400 charging cycles — ensuring phones run like new years down the line.
Software Optimizations for Smooth Performance
Hardware is only part of the equation. Oppo’s ColorOS 16 introduces features like Instant Refresh for entry-level phones to minimize data fragmentation and streamline app permissions management. Further, the Smoothness Baseline Test combined with the Parallel Animation Standard 6 Zero monitors and minimizes lag, crashes, freezes, and other disruptions — delivering a seamless user experience across all devices.
Best of all, Apex Guard’s technologies will be integrated across Oppo’s entire lineup — from budget-friendly models to its flagship Find X series, ensuring durability and performance for all users.
User Perspectives: How Long Will You Keep Your Phone?
- 1 year max: 11.29%
- Up to 2 years: 12.9%
- 2-5 years: 56.45%
- 5 years or more: 19.35%
Simulating 6 Years of Use
Oppo has undertaken rigorous testing to replicate 72 months of real-world usage, reinforcing the promise that Apex Guard-equipped smartphones maintain peak durability and performance over time.
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The Final Word: Time Will Tell
While Oppo’s Apex Guard offers a refreshing take on smartphone durability and longevity, it remains to be seen how it truly performs in everyday hands compared to Apple’s iPhone 17. Nonetheless, the direction hints at an exciting future where phones retain premium quality much longer, addressing a major source of user frustration today.
