Apple has enjoyed several years without facing a major product controversy, but the iPhone 17 Pro series has sparked fresh criticism. Many users are now dubbing the issue “scratchgate.” Reports highlight that the Deep Blue and Cosmic Orange finishes show marks far more easily than expected. This unexpected flaw has begun circulating across social media platforms, stirring disappointment among early adopters of Apple’s flagship smartphone.
Durability Tests Show Early Wear and Tear
A well-known YouTuber conducted detailed durability tests on both the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max. His video revealed how quickly scratches appear on the devices, especially on the sharp corners of the large rear camera module. Viewers were surprised to see that everyday handling left visible damage. The test suggested that Apple’s latest anodized coating does not hold up well against regular friction.
Anodized Coating Blamed for Weakness
According to the reviewer, the anodized coating is the key reason behind the problem. While meant to improve the device’s aesthetic appeal, it struggles to maintain integrity along sharp edges. Everyday objects, such as coins or keys, can easily chip the finish on the blue and orange models. This finding has raised questions about Apple’s choice of materials and how they align with the brand’s premium reputation.
Also Read: Two-Hour Delay Introduced for Digital Fund Transfers to Curb Fraud
Aluminum Unibody Offers Pros and Cons
Apple’s introduction of an aluminum unibody frame for the iPhone 17 Pro comes with notable benefits. The material allows better heat dissipation, which helps maintain performance during heavy use. However, this design choice also exposes new weaknesses. While sleek and lightweight, aluminum combined with the current coating appears more vulnerable to scratches. For customers expecting durability alongside elegance, this trade-off has become a controversial talking point.
Protective Cases Provide Best Defense
For now, the most reliable solution available to buyers is simple: use a protective case. Cases can guard the iPhone 17 Pro’s body and camera edges from scratches caused by daily use. However, reviewers noted that the sharp corners around the camera bump remain tricky to shield completely. Despite this limitation, cases remain the most effective method for preserving the smartphone’s premium appearance over time.
Performance Still Impresses in Other Areas
Despite the scratch concerns, the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max models demonstrated excellent resilience in every other durability test. Both devices withstood bending, pressure, and screen scratch evaluations better than many rivals. These results show that Apple has not compromised on structural integrity or display toughness. Still, the susceptibility of the new finishes casts a shadow over what is otherwise an impressively engineered flagship lineup.
