Recent images and videos circulating on social media have sparked debate over scratches and damage observed on iPhone 17 models displayed in Apple stores, as well as some iPhone Air variants.
Apple has addressed the issue, attributing the scratches to worn MagSafe risers used in stores.
These display holders transferred material onto the phone surfaces, creating the appearance of scratches.
Apple emphasized that the marks are not permanent and can be removed with simple cleaning.
The company is replacing old display holders in its stores and authorized retail locations to prevent further occurrences.
Real Damage Concerns
Despite Apple’s clarification, users and tech reviewers noticed scratching and paint peeling around the rear camera edges of the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max.
This raised questions about the durability of the anodized aluminum coating used in these models.
Popular tech YouTuber Zak Nelson of JerryRigEverything demonstrated that rubbing a coin against the camera edges could peel the coating, revealing the metal underneath.
Experts note that the sharp edges of the camera module do not fully comply with ISO standards for anodized coatings, which recommend a corner radius ten times greater than the coating thickness.
Apple responded by highlighting that the anodizing process used on Pro models exceeds industry standards, particularly in microhardness, though daily use can result in minor scratches or wear.
Read also: Samsung Galaxy S26 Series: Strong Competition Between Snapdragon and Exynos Chips
Technical Insights
iFixit, the electronics teardown specialists, showed that the issue stems from the sharp camera edges rather than aluminum quality.
Shahrum Mokhtari, lead teardown technician at iFixit, explained that the anodized coating adheres well to flat surfaces like the phone’s back but is prone to spalling—flaking under local stress—on edges, even from minor contact like keys or coins.
This issue was not observed on iPhone Air or standard iPhone 17 models because their backs use glass or ceramic glass, not anodized aluminum.
iPhone 17 Pro Design Features
The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max feature a 7000-series aluminum frame used in aerospace, paired with a Ceramic Shield back enhanced with nano-ceramic particles in a glass matrix, offering four times stronger break resistance than the iPhone 16 Pro’s back glass.
The front screen features Ceramic Shield 2, designed for scratch and crack resistance, tripling scratch durability compared to previous generations.
Factory Problem or Direct Misuse
Apple stresses that minor scratches or coating flaking do not affect performance or functionality.
To maintain the device’s appearance, Apple recommends using a screen protector.
Units tested by CNET over the past two weeks showed no scratches or coating flaking, indicating that damage in stores likely occurred due to old MagSafe holders or handling by visitors.
Apple advises users who find scratches or peeling on their devices to visit the store for inspection and potential replacement, provided the damage was not caused by direct misuse.
Key Takeaways
- Scratches on iPhone 17 in stores are mostly due to old MagSafe risers.
- Edge peeling is related to the sharp camera module design, not aluminum quality.
- iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max are built with aerospace-grade aluminum and Ceramic Shield 2 for enhanced durability.
- Minor cosmetic issues do not impact phone performance.
- Users are advised to use protective accessories and visit Apple stores if serious damage occurs.
