The launch of Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max has been met with an unexpected wave of customer dissatisfaction. Within just 24 hours of release, numerous users have reported noticeable scratches and scuffs on their devices, leading to widespread discussions about the phones’ durability.
Social media platforms are abuzz with complaints from customers who have observed signs of wear on their new iPhones almost immediately after unboxing. One user shared images of a demo unit with visible scratches, expressing disappointment in the device’s quality. The user advised others to use a case immediately to avoid similar issues.
The issue first gained traction among customers in China, where the hashtag related to the iPhone 17 Pro’s susceptibility to scratches trended on Weibo, a popular social media site. Bloomberg reported on this trend, highlighting the growing concern among consumers.
Interestingly, the reported damage does not appear to be linked to rough handling. Even routine use of the MagSafe charger has been noted to cause scuff marks on the back of the device, leaving a visible circular imprint. The Deep Blue color variant seems to make these imperfections more noticeable, though reports suggest that all color options are equally affected.
Speculation has arisen that Apple’s decision to revert to an aluminum chassis, moving away from the previously used titanium, may be a contributing factor to the increased susceptibility to scratches. Despite these reports, Apple maintains that the iPhone 17 Pro lineup is as durable as its predecessors. The company states that aluminum was selected for its strength, lightness, and thermal conductivity.
Some users have reported damage that goes beyond superficial scratches, including broken corners, dents, and chips in the aluminum frame. This has led to further dissatisfaction among customers who expect premium durability from Apple’s flagship devices.
The typical recommendation to use a protective case is complicated by the iPhone 17 Pro’s new design, which features a plateau that standard cases do not cover, leaving parts of the device exposed and vulnerable to damage.
In response to these issues, some customers have claimed to cancel their orders or delay upgrading until Apple addresses the problem. This situation echoes past concerns with Apple’s devices, such as the iPhone 5 and iPhone 7’s durability issues, and the iPhone 6’s bendgate controversy.
As the discussion continues, potential buyers are advised to consider these reports and take precautions, such as using protective accessories, to mitigate the risk of damage to their devices.
