Two iPhone 17 models show signs of wear after only a short time

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The iPhone 17 has now arrived in Apple Stores and, as usual, is attracting a lot of attention. New colors, a redesigned design, and technical advancements characterize the current generation. But even at first glance at the display units, something catches the eye and causes controversy: the first signs of scratches and visible wear on the casings.

Reports from Bloomberg and the French blog Consomac show that the new iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone Air models are showing signs of wear after just a short period of time. This particularly affects darker color variants, which appear more prone to scratches than others. This raises questions about the choice of materials and the durability of the new devices.

Affected colors and models

The scratches are particularly noticeable on the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max in the Deep Blue color variant. The iPhone Air in Space Black is also already showing initial signs of wear. Lighter models, such as those in silver or natural tones, are less affected and appear less susceptible to the first signs of wear.

Differences from the predecessor

A comparison with previous models explains why the surface of the iPhone 17 might be more susceptible to scratches. While the iPhone 16 Pro models featured a titanium frame and a glass back, Apple uses an aluminum unibody casing combined with a glass-like Ceramic Shield area on the back for the iPhone 17 Pro. Titanium and glass are harder and more robust than aluminum. This could be one reason why the new Pro series is more susceptible to scratches.

The iPhone Air also features a titanium frame and a Ceramic Shield back. Nevertheless, the Space Black display units also show noticeable scratches. Apparently, the color scheme plays an important role, as darker surfaces make scratches more visible than lighter versions.

Possible causes

How severely the devices were actually subjected to wear and tear in the stores remains unclear. Many visitors don't treat the display devices with the same care as they would their own smartphones. It's therefore possible that scratches developed more quickly than in everyday use. Nevertheless, the observations indicate that certain models and colors are more susceptible than others.

What this means for buyers

This doesn't necessarily pose a problem for everyday use, but buyers should keep in mind that the surfaces can be sensitive. Especially with darker models, the use of protective cases or screen protectors is recommended to reduce the risk of scratches. Those who value a flawless appearance might find lighter colors a better choice.

iPhone 17: New design with minor weaknesses

The iPhone 17 continues Apple's design evolution, introducing new materials and fresh colors, but also reveals a potential weak point. Initial scratches on the Pro and Air models in dark colors indicate that aluminum and Ceramic Shield, while modern and high-quality, can be more fragile in everyday use than titanium and glass. This isn't a serious problem for Apple, but it does underscore the importance of caution when handling the new devices. (Image: Shutterstock / Loner Nguyen)