Archive · 23 Sep 2025
iPhone 17 Pro 'Scratchgate' Sparks Complaints Over Durability
The new iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max are having issues with scratches.
Users and tech reviewers say the phones' frames scratch very easily, especially in darker colors like Deep Blue.
This is because Apple uses an anodized aluminum frame, which gets scratched quickly by regular use.
People are seeing scratches on demo phones in stores.
Some reviewers have also tested it and found scratches happen around the camera.
Users are disappointed, and some are calling it 'Scratchgate'.
iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max users report the phones are prone to scratches.
The issue is primarily with the anodized aluminum frame.
Darker colors, such as Deep Blue, appear more susceptible to scratches.
Scratches are visible on display models in Apple Stores.
Some users are calling the issue 'Scratchgate'
- Who
- iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max users and Apple
- What
- Complaints about easily scratched frames on the new iPhones.
- When
- Shortly after the iPhone 17 series launch
- Where
- Reported online and observed in Apple Stores
- Why
- Due to the anodized aluminum unibody frame design
Customers
Apple
Frame Durability
Customers
Expresses strong disappointment regarding the lack of scratch resistance.
Apple
Apple has not made a public statement.
- Device
- iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max
- Issue
- Susceptibility to scratches on the anodized aluminum frame
- Material
- Anodized Aluminum (frame), Glass (rear)
- Reported By
- Multiple users and tech commentators
- Observed in
- Demo units in Apple Stores
- Notable Color
- Deep Blue (more prone to scratches)
