Just days after the release of the iPhone 17 series, Apple seems to have run headfirst into a controversy with the aptly-named ‘scratchgate’ issue. Early adopters of the latest iPhone model have seemingly reported cases of the phone easily inviting scratches on its body. As such, dedicated followers of the technology giants have flocked to the internet to gather more information regarding the topic.
Apple iPhone 17 series faces scratchgate issue
Announced on September 9, the new iPhone 17 range officially entered the market on September 19. However, since then, several users have highlighted that the phones, including the base model, the Pro version, and the Pro Max version, are extremely prone to scratches.
Bloomberg managing editor Mark Gurman noted that he faced a similar issue with the iPhone 17 and that its anodized aluminum frame was the major reason behind the problem. Interestingly, the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max have proven to be much more scratch-resistant than their successor, particularly due to their titanium builds. The technology expert even claimed that this could be why Apple chose not to release the Pro models in black.
The issue with the iPhone 17 is that the models have an anodized aluminum body. In such a construct, when the top layer somehow gets damaged, it exposes the silver-colored aluminum layer underneath. Therefore, it is easier to notice scratches on such products.
Renowned YouTuber JerryRigEverything, who specializes in making in-depth reviews of mobile phones, added to Apple’s troubles in his recent video, where he pointed out yet another issue in the camera area of the iPhone 17. According to the popular content creator, the camera bump on the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max sports a sharp edge instead of a chamfered corner, making it more prone to chipping.
According to the analysis conducted by technological experts, the scratching and chipping issue with the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max phones is permanent and not curable at all. As such, the only way to save your new iPhone is to slap on a protective case as soon as you get your hands on it.
Originally reported by Apoorv Rastogi on Mandatory.
