Level 1 (14 points)

iPad 6 developing scratches and probably burning the apple pencil.

Are there any known damage that occurs to the iPad 6 which is not covered by Apple care?

my iPad developed two marks on the side where the pencil is stuck for charging. Over the last two years it has caused four such marks on the side that leaves black spots on the pencil. I am scared that there’s some sparking that is burning 5e pencil and hence I have stopped using the Apple Pencil altogether.

when I visited the Apple Store in Delhi, I was told that it is “generic problem” and is not covered by AppleCare.

I am not satisfied with this response as they seem to be not admitting that this can cause problems. Has anyone else faced similar issues with their ipad6?

Posted on Oct 23, 2026 3:36 AM

5 replies

LotusPilot

Level 10 (334,506 points)

Oct 23, 2026 6:42 AM in response to jasonor1105

Be assured that the marks that you describe are not burns or due to any kind of "sparking".

The marks correspond with the magnetic contact points of your Apple Pencil.

Basic material science tells us that any hard/abrasive material will embed itself in the surface of the softer material (in this case, the body of the Pencil) - and this embedded material can then abrade the surface of a hard material (the anodised coating of your iPad) as the Pencil slides on/off of the iPad charging pad.

Hard ferrous particles will obviously be attracted to Pencil's magnetic contact points - and will be the cause of corresponding marks on your Pencil - and perhaps localised damage from abrasion to the iPad's anodised surface.

Keeping these surfaces clean and dust free can reduce the possibility of this type of cosmetic surface damage.

While unattractive, this cosmetic damage will not impact your iPad or Pencil's performance. The cosmetic marks are not a defect covered by the limited warranty or AppleCare+. Cosmetic damage of this type is expected/normal wear-and-tear.

Rudegar

Level 10 (187,102 points)

Oct 23, 2026 4:34 AM in response to jasonor1105

what AI Says

"Apple treats cosmetic issues (such as surface scratches, scuffs, or minor chips) under specific policies depending on whether you are dealing with warranty, trade-in, or repairs: [1, 2, 3]

Warranty Coverage: The Apple One (1) Year Limited Warranty explicitly excludes cosmetic damage (like scratches, dents, and normal wear and tear) from free repairs or replacements. Cosmetic damage does not void the standard hardware warranty for unrelated internal defects, though deep dents may be classified as accidental damage. [1, 2]
Trade-In Values: Apple expanded its trade-in program to offer more granular, improved pricing for devices with minor cosmetic defects (such as small screen chips) rather than lumping them in with severe damage like cracked displays. [1]
Repairs and Genius Bar Intake: When you hand a device in for service, technicians typically document existing scratches or wear on the work authorization form to prevent disputes over pre-existing blemishes. [1]
Cleaning and Maintenance: Surface marks, oil discoloration, or material transfer on finishes or oleophobic coatings can often be cleaned using a soft, slightly damp, lint-free cloth following official Apple Cleaning Guidelines. [1, 2]