Apple customers have noticed scratches and scuffs on Apple iPhone Air and Apple iPhone 17 Pro display models at retail locations such as the Apple stores. The damage is primarily found near the MagSafe charger area. These devices are handled by hundreds to thousands of people daily and are attached to proprietary metal charging stands, raising questions about whether customer-owned devices will face the same issues.
Apple iPhone 17 Pro aluminum offers strong protection
The Apple iPhone 17 Pro models are constructed from aluminium with an anodization process that adds color and scratch resistance. This finish is similar in hardness to sapphire, protecting most of the device against minor scratches, including the Ceramic Shield 2 cutout for MagSafe charging.
Camera plateau remains a concern
Despite the durable finish, the camera plateau has a sharp, raised edge that is not chamfered. This area is more susceptible to scratches because the anodized layer is not well-adhered. Objects such as keys or coins typically found in pockets did not cause damage elsewhere, but the camera edge remains vulnerable.
Apple iPhone Air uses different coating process
Unlike the aluminium Apple iPhone 17 Pro, the Apple iPhone Air uses a titanium coating applied through Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD). While this provides a thin colored layer, the Apple iPhone Air could be more prone to scratches. Evidence from retail store devices suggests damage may also result from contact with Apple’s metal charging stands rather than inherent material weakness.
Protective measures recommended
The scratch test results suggest that most Apple iPhone 17 Pro owners will not experience the same scratches seen on display models. However, using a, preferable sustainable, case is always advised to protect the camera plateau, and care should be taken to avoid significant drops, as the thin anodized coating could be damaged.
Conclusion
While Apple has made the Apple iPhone 17 Pro largely scratch-resistant, certain edges like the camera plateau remain at risk. Apple iPhone Air models may require similar precautions due to their titanium coating. Retail display damage does not necessarily indicate widespread issues for customer devices.
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