3 Minutes
Apple has responded to early reports that some iPhone 17 Pro demo units show visible marks along the aluminum frame — a controversy quickly dubbed 'Scratchgate' online. The company says the blemishes are not permanent scratches, but the debate between Apple and teardown testers continues to shape buyer concerns about the new design.
Apple's explanation: material transfer from MagSafe displays
Apple told 9to5Mac that the scuffs seen on store demo units are caused by 'material transfer' from the MagSafe stands used in retail displays. According to the company, this residue can be wiped away and does not indicate lasting damage to the anodized aluminum finish. Apple also noted that material transfer can occur on any product with an anodized aluminum surface — not just the iPhone 17 series.
Independent testers see more than removable residue
Teardown and durability channels such as iFixit and JerryRigEverything have shown that the anodized coating on the new lighter aluminum frame can chip when scratched with metal objects, particularly around the sharp edges of the redesigned camera housing. Their tests suggest normal pocket or table contact can wear down the paint layer within days, especially when the phone is used without a case — a scenario Apple actively promotes.
What this means for buyers and a quick comparison
For consumers, the key question is whether marks are temporary residue or actual coating loss. Apple’s removable-residue explanation comforts some users, but independent testing points to real paint wear in stressed areas. There's also a broader conversation about trade-offs: Apple replaced last year’s titanium frame with lighter aluminum to reduce weight and improve heat management, which may have affected surface resilience. For context, some reviewers have also compared drop and durability performance between the iPhone 17 Pro and rivals like the Galaxy S25 Ultra.
How to reduce visible wear
Simple precautions can help: use a protective case, avoid abrasive surfaces, and periodically wipe the phone and retail stand contacts with a soft cloth. If marks appear on demo units in stores, inquire whether they are residue or deeper coating loss before purchase. For buyers who prioritize scratch resistance, waiting for broader real-world feedback or choosing a case-friendly approach is reasonable.
Conclusion
Apple's official stance frames the issue as removable material transfer from retail MagSafe stands, but third-party durability tests raise valid concerns about anodized aluminum wear around sharp camera edges. Prospective buyers should weigh the phone's lighter aluminum benefits against potential surface vulnerability, and consider protective accessories if surface appearance is a priority.
Source: gizmochina
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