Dust inside sealed display of iPad 9th Gen – Manufacturing defect?

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Dust inside sealed display of iPad 9th Gen – Manufacturing defect?

Over time, dust has gradually appeared inside the main display of my iPad 9th Generation and has spread across the screen. The display is a sealed unit and has never been opened or damaged, so this seems like improper sealing or a latent manufacturing defect.

I contacted Apple Support, but my request was rejected because the device is out of warranty. Since internal dust in a sealed screen should never happen under normal use, can this be considered a manufacturing defect? Has anyone faced a similar issue and received a goodwill repair or replacement from Apple?

iPad, iPadOS 26

Posted on Jan 28, 2026 7:54 AM

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Answer 1

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LotusPilot

Level 10

302,798 points

Jan 28, 2026 8:26 AM in response to SwissAryan01

Your iPad is not environmentally "sealed" as you might suggest. Your iPad has openings (such as speaker ports) which can allow ingress of moisture and dust. Some entry-level models of iPad do not have a fully laminated display - such models having a separate cover-glass/digitiser assembly from the display panel.

Only Apple can rule as to whether or not a manufacturing defect might be attributed to your iPad. Given that your iPad is out of warranty - and presumably you do not have benefit of an active AppleCare+ plan - you have few options available to you having already received a determination from Apple.

Depending upon your country/region, you may have additional legislation or consumer rights that offers additional protection for latent manufacturing defects - examples being the UK and EU Member States.

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