Apple iPhone 17 Pro Models: Scratches and Material Concerns Addressed
The recent launch of the iPhone 17 Pro models has generated discussions around reports of increased vulnerability to scratches compared to previous editions. However, the situation is more nuanced than it may initially seem.
Early Reports of Scratches
According to a Bloomberg report dated September 19, numerous demo units of the iPhone 17 Pro displayed scratches, including circular marks resulting from their placement on MagSafe stands. This observation raised concerns about the durability of the new devices. In response, Apple issued clarifications to 9to5Mac, stating that these marks are not actual scratches but "material transfer" from the stands to the phone’s surface.
Apple’s Assurance on Cleaning and Maintenance
Apple emphasized that routine cleaning of display units and updating older MagSafe stands could mitigate such transfer issues. However, this does not address other reports from iPhone 17 Pro users who have noted scratches around the camera bump.
Design Choices and Vulnerabilities
In a recent video, YouTuber JerryRigEverything speculated that the design decisions regarding the iPhone 17 Pro’s camera bump could contribute to its susceptibility to scratches. Specifically, the absence of a chamfer or fillet along the edges of the camera module may leave it more vulnerable to damage. Apple has responded by asserting that the aluminum design of the camera bump is consistent with its other aluminum products, claiming it is durable yet may incur "small abrasions" over time.
Ongoing Questions About Durability
While Apple has rejected some claims regarding the scratching, the absence of direct quotes from company representatives in 9to5Mac’s reporting may indicate that the firm has not finalized its stance on the matter. Engadget has reached out to Apple for further clarification and will provide updates as new information emerges.
Material Choices and Performance
Switching from the titanium frame used in the iPhone 16 Pro to an unibody aluminum structure in the iPhone 17 Pro has introduced several advantages, including enhanced performance and extended battery life. However, aluminum’s inherent traits, such as lower scratch resistance compared to titanium, may have led to the current concerns about the iPhone 17 Pro’s durability.
Conclusion
As users evaluate the iPhone 17 Pro, ongoing scrutiny over its material choices and reported scratches will likely continue. Whether these issues represent isolated incidents or broader concerns remains to be seen, but it underscores the importance of consumer awareness regarding device maintenance and material properties in smartphone design.
For updates on this story and more information on Apple’s products, stay tuned to our latest news coverage.
