Apple’s ambitious iPhone 17 series has been swept into a major controversy dubbed “Scratchgate.” Despite carrying a price tag of nearly $2,000 for some models, users worldwide are voicing frustration that the devices are far too vulnerable to surface damage. Within mere hours of being displayed in stores, scratches began appearing on demo units—sparking disappointment and outrage among consumers who expected flawless durability from a premium flagship.
Visible Scratches on Display Units Worldwide
According to Bloomberg, noticeable scratches have been spotted on iPhone 17 display models across Apple Stores in New York, Hong Kong, and London. Particularly, the Deep Blue iPhone 17 Pro and the Space Black iPhone 17 Air exhibited scratches within hours of being put on display. This alarming fragility suggests that even light, everyday contact may be enough to damage the device’s finish.
Tech YouTubers have reinforced these concerns. In a durability test by JerryRigEverything, a channel with 9.6 million subscribers, the iPhone 17’s rear panel showed visible scratches when lightly grazed with a coin—further fueling the backlash.
Accessories Adding to the Problem
Consumers have also reported that scratches frequently occur around the frame and back when using MagSafe chargers and ring stands. The repeated friction between the accessories and the phone’s aluminum body appears to worsen the issue. While Apple has suggested that worn-out store accessories may be partly to blame, the idea that customers must constantly worry about accessory wear and tear with a high-priced device only deepens frustration.
The Aluminum Dilemma: Lightweight but Vulnerable
At the heart of Scratchgate lies Apple’s decision to adopt aluminum for the iPhone’s casing. While aluminum brings benefits such as reduced weight and improved heat dissipation, it also has a lower hardness rating—making it prone to scratching under minimal friction. On darker finishes like Deep Blue and Space Black, even small scratches stand out prominently, amplifying consumer dissatisfaction.
Although Apple claims to have enhanced its scratch-resistant coatings, user experiences tell a different story. Critics argue that Apple may have sacrificed durability in favor of design aesthetics and weight reduction.
Global Backlash on Social Media
The outrage has spread rapidly online. On Weibo, a post showcasing scratches on the iPhone 17 went viral with over 40 million views in a single day. Meanwhile, platforms like X (formerly Twitter) are flooded with photos and videos of scratched devices, with users questioning how such an expensive product could be so fragile.
Many buyers feel betrayed—not just by the scratches, but by what they see as a lack of quality control and durability standards expected from a premium smartphone. Some users now joke that cases and screen protectors are no longer optional, but an unavoidable necessity.
A Recurring Problem in Apple’s History
This isn’t Apple’s first durability controversy. The Jet Black iPhone 7 (2016) was notorious for scratches, while even stainless steel and titanium models like the iPhone 14 Pro faced similar complaints. Recurring durability issues with each new iPhone could prove damaging to Apple’s brand image if not addressed.
Experts suggest Apple may eventually need to revisit material choices or invest in new protective technologies, just as it previously introduced Ceramic Shield glass to strengthen displays.
Practical Tips for iPhone 17 Users
For those who already own or plan to purchase an iPhone 17, here are some practical measures to mitigate the issue:
Use a protective case and film immediately: Choose durable accessories that cover high-friction areas, including around the camera and MagSafe ring.
Be mindful of color choice: Darker finishes like Deep Blue and Space Black show scratches more clearly, so lighter shades may be better for scratch-conscious users.
Handle MagSafe accessories with care: Keep contact surfaces clean and avoid using worn-out chargers or mounts to reduce friction damage.
Looking Ahead
The iPhone 17 may offer innovative features, but it has also reignited debate about Apple’s approach to durability. With global attention on Scratchgate, the world now waits to see whether Apple can strike a better balance between elegance and endurance in its future designs.