FCC Accidentally Leaked iPhone 16e Schematics — Apple Asked for Confidentiality
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) recently published a 163-page PDF containing detailed electrical schematics for the iPhone 16e, despite Apple explicitly requesting the documents remain confidential. The schematics reportedly include block diagrams, full electrical schematics, antenna locations and related technical drawings. Apple submitted a cover letter dated September 16, 2024, asking the FCC to withhold the files indefinitely as they contain “confidential and proprietary trade secrets.”
What happened
- The FCC published schematics tied to the iPhone 16e during the device certification process.
- Apple had requested the documents be kept confidential and warned that release could give competitors an “unfair advantage.”
- The agency has not publicly explained how the files were released; reporting suggests it may have been due to an incorrect database setting.
Potential impact
While rivals could already buy an iPhone 16e and inspect its hardware, the released documents remove guesswork and reveal detailed design and antenna placements. This could make reverse engineering or patent-related disputes simpler for competitors. Apple has historically defended its intellectual property aggressively.
Sources
Note: No FCC statement explaining the release was available at the time of posting. If and when the FCC publishes an official response or the actual FCC filing link appears, this post will be updated.
What do you think — should regulators treat sensitive filings differently, or is this the cost of public certification processes? Share your thoughts below.