The Apple Card Launches in the U.S. with Some Growing Pains

Posted September 17, 2019 by CCC Staff in

The Apple credit card isn’t even out in Canada yet and it’s already generated plenty of buzz north of the border. While there’s a lot of excitement around the Apple Card, not all the hype surrounding it is positive. The Apple Card just launched in the U.S. and already our American friends are pointing out some potential issues.

Is the Apple Card’s Design Causing an Issue?

The Apple Card is all about going digital. It comes with a digital app that lets you use the Apple Card at any retailer that accepts it – all without the physical credit card being present. The Apple Card does come with a physical card for those times when you can’t use your smartphone.

We previously noted the card’s sleek design. The card is made of titanium and laser-etched with your name on it along with the Apple logo. It’s the same sleek, high-end design we’ve come to expect from Apple, but herein lies the problem.

Already in its early days, the Apple Card’s sleek design has posed a problem. The main issue is that it can be easily damaged, enough so that not only does it no longer look good, it might not work properly either.

Storing Your Apple Card

When you store your credit card, if you’re anything like me you’ll store it in your wallet or jeans. However, you might want to think twice about doing that with the Apple Card. That’s because Apple is warning that by doing that it can result in permanent discoloration of the Apple Card.

Specifically, Apple is saying that if the card comes in contact with hard surfaces or materials, the card’s coating could be damaged. But that’s not all.

The Apple Card may come with more upkeep than you realize. To keep the Apple card looking its best, Apple is suggesting that you regularly clean the card with a microfibre cloth and isopropyl alcohol.

Apple is also warning against the Apple Card coming in contact with keys, anything sharp in your wallet or purse and even other cards. For instance, if you put the Apple Card in a slot in your wallet like most people, it could become scratched.

Is the Damage Just Cosmetic?

It’s not immediately clear whether the damage to the Apple Card is purely cosmetic or it could interfere with the usability of the card. In a worst case scenario it is possible that the Apple Card could lose its magnetic strip or embedded microchip.

One funny thing that Americans are noting is the loud noise that the Apple Card makes if you drop it. One user on Twitter noted that it sounded like dropping a hydro flask in a crowded lecture hall.

The Bottom Line

This isn’t the first time Apple has faced problems with the release of new products and it won’t be the last. Although there’s no word yet on when the Apple Card will be released in Canada, this should give Apple plenty of time to work out the kinks ahead of the Canadian release if and when it happens. Regardless, Apple is a company that many people love, so as long as the Apple Card provides some value, which is does, I’m sure it will be a huge success, even if there are a few bumps along the way.