After the launch of the iPhone 17 series and iPhone Air, some early users reported unexpected scratches on the iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max. Social media quickly became inundated with images showcasing marks that appeared within days of use, leading to the ‘scratchgate’ controversy, reminiscent of the previous ‘bendgate’ incident. Apple has intervened to address these issues. Speculation arose regarding the switch to an aluminium unibody for the iPhone 17 Pro models as a potential cause for the scratches. A teardown by iFixit indicated that the anodized coating on the camera plateau seemed particularly vulnerable to damage. This anodization, serving as a protective metal layer, was thought to be the cause of concern.
However, Apple denied these allegations, asserting that the aluminium unibody of the iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max behaves like earlier Apple devices made of aluminium, with the last aluminium-framed Pro models being the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max. Apple informed 9to5Mac that the scratches reported by some users are merely ‘small abrasions’ associated with normal wear and tear during regular use. The company highlighted that the anodization layer on the iPhone 17 Pro models is exceptionally durable, surpassing ‘industry standard guidelines for microhardness,’ as reported by CNET. Concerns also extended beyond the camera plateau and aluminium frame.
Bloomberg noted that some iPhone 17 Pro models and iPhone Air units displayed marks on their backplates in Apple Stores. Apple claims that the backplate, constructed from Ceramic Shield 2, is three times more durable than the original Ceramic Shield. The company clarified that the marks are not scratches, but rather material transferred from MagSafe stands to the devices, which can be easily cleaned. Despite the social media frenzy, Apple remains confident in the durability of its new devices. The tech giant reassures users that minor abrasions and material transfers are standard experiences that do not compromise the overall performance or structural integrity of the devices.
Following a 9% rise in shares of Redington Ltd on Friday, reaching Rs 314.60 on the BSE from Rs 288.10, the enthusiasm surrounding Apple’s latest launches appears robust, indicating that concerns over scratches may not significantly deter consumer interest. Apple’s response to ‘scratchgate’ highlights its commitment to addressing early user concerns with transparency, underscoring that these marks are expected with everyday use and do not signify a manufacturing defect.