The iPhone 17 has officially hit the market, creating a thrilling period for Apple fans anticipating a fresh smartphone. Initial feedback on the iPhone 17 Pro has been mostly favorable, although the model does present some drawbacks, particularly its vulnerability to scratches.
As Apple Stores feature the new iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, customers have noted scratches on the demonstration devices. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman pointed out that the new aluminum unibody frame is especially susceptible to scratching, especially in darker shades such as Deep Blue. This may clarify why Apple chose not to release the Pro models in black. The iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max boasted a more scratch-resistant titanium exterior, leaving many iPhone 17 Pro users taken aback by how quickly their devices displayed signs of wear.
The impacted models are the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max with the anodized aluminum coating.
What is Scratchgate?
The wave of scratch-related grievances on social media has been dubbed “scratchgate.” Just one day after iPhone Day, early users had already coined this phrase. Some individuals reported scratching on the aluminum surface after placing their phones in the same pocket as coins or keys. These marks expose the silver-hued aluminum beneath, starkly contrasting with vibrant colors like bright orange or dark blue.
Anodized aluminum features a top layer akin to the candy shell of an M&M. When scratched, the revealing silver-colored aluminum becomes visible. Therefore, users who do not utilize a case have observed surface damage within a few days. YouTubers such as JerryRigEverything are swiftly uploading content about the situation, which does not affect the iPhone Air due to its titanium enclosure.
The issue is even more noticeable around the back of the device. As per JerryRigEverything, the camera bump on the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max has a sharp corner rather than a beveled edge. This design selection, along with the anodizing technique, renders the camera bump liable to chipping. This problem is permanent and cannot be remedied. Viewing the complete video is advisable for enhanced understanding.
“The ISO standard specifies that sharp edges should be machined into a radius 10 times the intended thickness (of the anodized layer),” states JerryRigEverything. “If Apple is using 25 micrometer thick anodizing, the minimum radius should range between a quarter and half a millimeter. The U.S. military standard suggests something similar. However, Apple simply ignored these public recommendations.”
In conclusion, the anodized aluminum coating on the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max is susceptible to scratches, and the camera bump is prone to chipping, which cannot be fixed by users.
How to prevent scratches on iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max devices
The optimal solution to avert scratchgate is to use a case on your new iPhone right away. This will shield the aluminum frame and the sharp edge of the camera bump, lowering the chance of substantial scratches from falls. Thankfully, numerous iPhone 17 Pro cases are available, including MagSafe-compatible options starting at $13.99.
Alternatively, if you enjoy the “relic” appearance favored by musicians who age their guitars to seem road-worn, you might opt to go without a case and allow your phone to develop that look naturally.