The iPhone 17 series, including the new iPhone Air, has shown good results in durability and scratch tests.
However, many customers and tech experts say the phones are picking up scratches more easily than expected, just weeks after launch.
Why Is This Happening?
The issue is mainly affecting the Deep Blue, Cosmic Orange, and Space Black versions of the iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, and iPhone Air.
The scratches are especially noticeable around the sharp edges of the camera bump.
According to popular YouTuber JerryRigEverything, the anodised aluminium coating on the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro Max “does not stick to corners very well.”
He explained that Apple didn’t add a chamfer or curve around the camera bump to make it look cooler, but this choice could cause problems for users over time.
If users keep their iPhone 17 Pro or Pro Max in the same pocket as coins or keys, the coating around the camera bump may chip. However, the flat rear panel is less likely to be affected.
Reports of scratches began as soon as the iPhone 17 went on sale last week. Bloomberg noted that even some display units in Apple stores had scratches.
The magnetic MagSafe charger has also been seen leaving circular marks on the back of iPhone 17 Pro models.
Apple’s Response: Scratches Can Be Cleaned
Apple says these marks are not permanent. According to the company, the scratches were caused by worn-out MagSafe stands in some stores.
Apple explained that they are not actual scratches but marks from material transfer, and they can be cleaned off.
The same problem was reported with iPhone 16 models, Apple added.
As for the scratches near the camera bump, Apple said the edges use the same anodised aluminium finish found on MacBooks and earlier iPhones. Over time, users may see normal wear, such as small abrasions.
Experts at iFixit pointed out that the issue comes from the uneven anodization of the sharp camera bump. At present, the best way to avoid scratches is to use a protective case.
