Just weeks after Apple launched the iPhone 17 series, customers and tech experts are raising concerns that the new Pro models scratch too easily. The issue has sparked the online trend ‘Scratchgate’ with frustrated buyers sharing photos and reviews.
The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max use a new anodised aluminium unibody frame instead of the titanium used in last year’s models. Apple introduced the change to make the phones lighter, but users say the darker finishes, especially Deep Blue, show scratches within hours of use.
Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman highlighted the problem, noting on X: “It looks like the iPhone 17 Pro in Deep Blue is scratch prone due to its anodized aluminum frame. Not entirely surprising. The dark aluminum iPhone models in prior years had a similar issue. This is actually probably why there’s no black version.”
It looks like the iPhone 17 Pro in Deep Blue is scratch prone due to its anodized aluminum frame. Not entirely surprising. The dark aluminum iPhone models in prior years had a similar issue. This is actually probably why there’s no black version. https://t.co/9XmkrZyQsH
— Mark Gurman (@markgurman) September 19, 2025
Visitors to Apple Stores also reported seeing scratches on display units.
One user wrote, “Barely a day in the showroom, and the iPhone 17 Pro and Max backplates have a bunch of visible scratches. Is this the beginning of a #Scratchgate?” Another added, “I guess they weren’t lying when they said the iPhone 17 Pro phones scratch easily.”
Durability reviewer JerryRigEverything tested both models and confirmed they passed bend tests. However, he found what he called a Scratchgate problem around the camera area, with the Deep Blue finish showing the most damage. He noted stains on the rear glass could be wiped away but warned that scratches on the frame were permanent.
Other buyers echoed the frustration. “Demo unit iPhone 17 Pro scratches on day one. Use a case immediately if you don’t want to experience this issue,” wrote one user. Another said, “Scratchgate issue with the iPhone 17 Pro is very real. The quality of this top-of-the-line phone is absolutely unacceptable.”
Apple has not commented on the complaints. In the meantime, users are advising new buyers to protect their devices with cases to avoid visible damage.