In light of reports claiming that Apple’s new iPhone 17 Pro is especially susceptible to scratches on its rear, the company has provided a statement.

Apple informed 9to5Mac that the markings observed on the display units of the iPhone 17 Pro are not scratches. According to Apple’s statement to 9to5Mac, these are actually instances of “material transfer” resulting from the use of worn MagSafe stands in retail environments. This phenomenon reportedly affects older iPhone models as well. Apple asserts that these “scratches” can be removed through cleaning, although this cannot be definitively verified at this moment.

Mashable has contacted Apple for further confirmation, but the company has yet to reply as of the time this article was published.

Whether or not these markings qualify as scratches, they appear to be genuine. A Mashable staff member noted seeing scratches on the blue and orange iPhone 17 Pro variants at an Apple Store. Most reports suggest that the marks are located where the MagSafe stand makes contact with the device, which could support Apple’s claims. Nonetheless, there is no assurance that Apple’s explanation is completely accurate.

Regardless of the cause, it might be wise to consider using a case for your iPhone 17 Pro.