iPhone 17 Pro scratches: MagSafe ‘material transfer’ vs. real scratches
Reports surfaced that some iPhone 17 Pro demo units showed surface marks and scratches shortly after launch. Apple told 9to5Mac that many of the visible circular marks on store demo units are not scratches but “material transfer” from worn MagSafe stands — removable by cleaning and solved by replacing old stands.
That explanation doesn’t cover all reports. Independent scratch tests (notably by JerryRigEverything) found the anodized aluminum camera bump and its sharp edges can chip or show small abrasions over time. iFixit’s teardown also notes aluminum is less scratch-resistant than the titanium used in prior Pro frames.
What this means for users
- Material-transfer marks in stores can often be cleaned off; Apple recommends replacing worn MagSafe stands.
- The iPhone 17 Pro’s unibody aluminum frame and camera plateau are more prone to cosmetic abrasions than titanium — a case will prevent most everyday wear.
- If you spot damage on a new device, document it (photos) and contact Apple Support if you believe it’s a defect.
Further reading and sources:
- MacRumors: Apple, iPhone 17 Pro scratches & MagSafe
- JerryRigEverything: iPhone 17 Pro scratch/durability test
- iFixit: iPhone 17 Pro teardown & analysis
Buy/search: iPhone 17 Pro on Amazon
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