Is it a problem if the SIM tray on my iPhone 16 Pro doesn’t sit properly on one side?

You have a path forward where you will have all of your questions answered when Apple in Poland said you can file a claim. Just as they said, none of us could possibly know the outcome. If Apple in Poland allowed you to test with a SIM tray from another device, you could at least determine if that would solve the problem.

I could answer your questions based on the photos you provided, but my opinion is really irrelevant. I would hope Apple resolves any issue to make their customers happy.

• Is this just a cosmetic issue? Yes, the device still operates as expected.
• Should I not be worried about anything? I don't see anything to be worried about, not even Water Resistance.
• Does this fall within manufacturing tolerance? As you do, I would also expect perfection, but manufacturing tolerances are not published for us to review. That is a determination Apple would make.

_kondi wrote:

Yes, it looks exactly the same without a SIM card. I also visited an authorized Apple Store in Poland: at one location I was told I could file a claim, but they had no idea what they’d do about it. At another, I was told the warranty wouldn’t cover it.

I would not expect the warranty to cover it as cosmetic damage is excluded in the warranty. I would see if you can get a repair cost if they are going to entertain the idea that there is a problem there that can be resolved. They would make the determination if it was covered under warranty, then you will have more information on how you would like to proceed. I just don't see a path of claiming a manufacturing defect or diminished water resistance as a way for a replacement.

_kondi wrote:

Thank you for your response.

After inserting, the tray is slightly shifted to one side, so small particles of dirt and dust accumulate there.

It’s simply annoying, and I'm concerned about the waterproofing

Your phone is not waterproof. It is considered splash and water resistant when tested in a very controlled environment. Sorry I don't have any specific recommendations for you other than a physical inspection for obstructions which I am sure you have done many times. Does the same thing happen when you remove the SIM card?

About splash, water, and dust resistance of iPhone 7 and later - Apple Support

With the ones made in China you could hardly see the join, however these are mostly made in India, different machines, but perfection is still expected.

Apple may need to approve the exchange, in the UK and some other EU countries, Apple would not be involved legally. Check your laws.

From your pictures, it does appear there is a scratch or possibly something sticking up on that side. Not sure what that could be or even if it occurred when the SIM card was inserted. As for a manufacturing defect, I do not see that as a course of action in getting a replacement device.

I wasn’t aware the 16 had a physical SIM??

Falling_ wrote:

I wasn’t aware the 16 had a physical SIM??

They are not available in the US market, but are in other regions.

_kondi wrote:

... I'm concerned about the waterproofing.

There is a hole in it anyway.