Reports of iPhone 17 Pro devices scratching quickly appeared online shortly after the phones hit stores. Tech reviewers and users noticed marks on display units and demo devices. Social media amplified the concern, dubbing it “scratchgate.”
Critics questioned whether Apple had changed the material of the Pro model’s stainless steel frame or glass back. Scratches were highlighted in photos and videos, which went viral within days. While some of the marks were real, Apple says the situation is being misinterpreted.
According to the company, the scratches mostly appear on in-store phones that customers and staff handle daily. These devices are tested, dropped, and touched repeatedly, which naturally leaves small scuffs over time.
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What does Apple have to say?
Apple issued a clarification that the iPhone 17 Pro’s materials meet high durability standards. The scratches seen in stores are mainly from regular handling, not from defective materials. In-store demo devices face repeated testing for features like Face ID, wireless charging, and button usage.
They are also frequently swapped between cases or touched with jewelry, which can cause minor surface marks. Apple says normal use by consumers will not produce the same scuffs because users handle the phones more carefully.
Essentially, the debate has grown out of seeing heavily used demo units as representative of retail devices. Apple stresses that the build quality remains unchanged from previous models.
What exactly is Demo Device Wear?
Demo phones are handled by hundreds of customers and employees. They are powered on for long hours, constantly connected to Wi-Fi and chargers, and moved around displays.
All of this contributes to tiny scratches and marks. Apple notes that these signs of wear are normal for demo devices and should not be confused with manufacturing defects. The company also explained that the scratch patterns seen in stores are exaggerated by close-up photography.
Fingerprints, dust, and light reflections make scuffs look worse than they are. For consumers, using a case or screen protector will further minimize risk of scratches during normal use.
The actual durability of the iPhone 17 Pro
The iPhone 17 Pro uses stainless steel for the frame and Ceramic Shield glass for the display. Apple emphasizes that these materials are highly scratch-resistant under normal conditions.
Laboratory tests conducted by Apple showed the new model withstands scratches from common metals and daily objects. The stainless steel frame is polished, which makes scuffs slightly more visible, but it remains strong against drops and abrasions.
Apple recommends using cases for maximum protection, especially for users who frequently carry the phone in pockets or bags with keys or coins. The company wants to clarify that the scratches seen online do not indicate a drop in quality.
After seeing these arguments and clarifications, it has become evident that the iPhone 17 Pro remains a durable device. Scratchgate concerns are mainly about in-store demos, not retail units. Normal usage combined with simple precautions like cases or careful handling will keep the phone looking new.
