New iPad Pros may arrive slightly bent
December 19th 2018
The Verge:
Apple has confirmed to The Verge that some of its 2018 iPad Pros are shipping with a very slight bend in the aluminum chassis. But according to the company, this is a side effect of the device’s manufacturing process and shouldn’t worsen over time or negatively affect the flagship iPad’s performance in any practical way. Apple does not consider it to be a defect.
Reportedly, Apple says this is due to cooling of metal and plastic components. The result is a slight curve mostly along the top and bottom edge of the device.
Apple seems to think it's not a structural issue and seems to imply it's just cosmetic. If it doesn't alter the function or durability, it's probably not a big deal, but usual if this is within tolerances given Apple's history of obsessive design and manufacturing details. If it is a material or manufacturing issue, I wouldn't be surprised if it's quietly addressed in future devices.