Every new iPhone launch brings excitement and a bit of drama. This year, while the iPhone Air has proven strong in durability tests, some users are questioning the toughness of the iPhone 17 Pro’s aluminum body.
A recent article from Bloomberg sparked discussions about “scratchgate.” It reported that demo units in stores showed signs of wear, particularly around the MagSafe area. Apple responded, saying these marks aren’t actual scratches; they’re simply material transfer from the worn-out display stands. They assured that these can be cleaned off and that they are fixing the stands in stores.
In another testing video, JerryRigEverything pointed out a different concern: the edges around the camera plateau seem prone to scratches. He noted that Apple didn’t design these edges with any rounding, which might be why they show wear more easily. Apple maintains that the edges are similar to other robust products, like MacBooks, and are designed for everyday use, though some wear may still occur.
Despite some issues, overall, the iPhone Air and 17 series are faring well in durability tests. The Ceramic Shield 2 cover is proving to be more resistant to scratches compared to earlier models. While only the camera edges appear to be a weak spot, the rest of the phone holds up surprisingly well under regular use.
Apple has emphasized that the new iPhones include a lightweight aerospace-grade aluminum and exceed industry standards for durability. They undergo extensive testing during development to ensure they can handle typical use. However, it’s smart to be cautious when viewing scratched phones online. Some images may show intentional damage trying to pass for normal wear.
On the bright side, the new aluminum design offers better thermal performance, which can lead to improved efficiency and battery life. After a couple of weeks of heavy use, my iPhone 17 Pro looks perfect, even without a case. Has anyone else had a similar experience?
For further reading on durability standards in tech products, check this [research study](https://www.statista.com/statistics/587588/consumer-smartphone-durability-concerns-worldwide-by-region/).
