The iPhone 17 Pro is now the subject of “Scratchgate,” a controversy that’s literally leaving a bad mark on Apple’s reputation. Reports of scratched iPhones popped up immediately after launch. They spread across platforms like X, TikTok, and Reddit under the hashtag #Scratchgate.
Customers from New York to Hong Kong have spotted scratches on their brand-new phones, sometimes within hours of unboxing. Some reviewers noticed that scratches appeared after just a few minutes in a pocket with keys or coins. Even worse, there are photos of models put on display in the Apple Store looking scuffed.
Why Are These Phones Scratching?
The main issue lies in Apple’s design choices and the material they used. JerryRigEverything did an excellent video about that goes into more detail.
This year, Apple moved away from titanium to anodized aluminum for the 17 Pro models, a move many believe was motivated by cost-cutting. The anodizing process should make the aluminum incredibly hard; up to a level 9 on the Mohs scale.
However, the sharp, raised edge of the Pro’s camera plateau is not chamfered. It doesn’t allow the anodized layer to bond evenly. For the camera area, the coating is thin and brittle. Light contact with keys, coins, or store display stands can chip away the finish. The bare aluminum underneath is silver, so every scratch on a dark-colored model like the midnight blue Pro stands out.
Flat surfaces hold up better, but the edges are almost doomed from the start. In fact, international coating standards recommend rounded edges to prevent this kind of chipping. Oh, did I mention there’s currently no way to fix these scratches? Apple ignored that advice for aesthetics, and now customers are paying the price.
Why Are People Freaking Out Over Scratchgate?
It’s worth noting that these scratches seem to be a cosmetic issue only. The 17 Pro are still functional but that hasn’t stopped people from getting upset or canceling their orders.
So why is there so much outrage when the phone itself still works? Apple sells status and perfection. iPhones are known for their durability. You can drop these phones on concrete, run it over with a car and it will still work. Buyers expect a premium device to look pristine. Seeing a $1,700 phone getting scratched easily within a few days is not a good look, especially as more people decide to forgo using a case/screen protector.
Should Users Worry About a Decline in Quality in the Future?
Apple hasn’t addressed Scratchgate, which again isn’t good. Many are speculating that the switch from titanium to aluminum was so Apple could save a little on manufacturing costs.
Scratchgate is causing some fans to worry that Apple is prioritizing saving money over making quality products. There was concern that Apple would have to raise prices due to tariffs. The iPhone 17 Pro is only $100 more than its predecessor, while the entry-level phones cost about the same as last year’s models. Not too bad, but will Apple cut corners by using cheap materials to avoid a major price hike?
It’s too soon to see if this is the start of a decline for Apple’s iPhones. Maybe they can redeem themselves with the iPhone 18. We’ll see if these scratches are the only issues plaguing the iPhone 17 Pro or if something else will pop up.
