The debate of the so-called iPhone 17 Pro “scratchgate” has exploded after the arrival of the phone in stores and to the first buyers. Images of it have been shared on networks and forums visible marks on the back and around the camera module, especially on some display units.
The publications have multiplied with phrases like “it scratches you just by looking at it”, and several content creators have put the device through its paces to assess its durability. Although the public conversation has grown rapidly, the company maintains a different explanation and has initiated changes in their stores to prevent the matter from going any further.
What is “scratchgate” and why is it being talked about?
The controversy erupts when users and testers report that, after minimal use or even in demonstration units, lines and spots appear that look like scratches on the iPhone 17 ProThe term “scratchgate” has become popular to refer to this phenomenon, with greater presence in models of color azul seen in shop windows and on test tables.
According to these accounts, the marks are detected after a few interactions and, in some cases, persist even after a superficial cleaning. Online conversation has compared this episode to others. Historical “-gates” of the brand, which has contributed to amplifying the media focus.
In early durability tests, several videos have shown that the chassis of anodized aluminum may show marks after rubbing against supports or accessories. However, results vary depending on the condition of those supports, the type of contact and the applied pressure, so not all experiences are identical.
Beyond the noise, the central question is whether it is permanent scratches or signs that can be removed. That has been precisely Apple's official position.
The official version: waste and “material transfer”
Apple claims that most of the reported cases correspond to surface residues, not damage to the finish. As he explains, in displays with MagSafe mounts old or worn surfaces cause “material transfer” to the chassis, leaving a trace that mimics the appearance of a scratch.
The company indicates that these marks are removed with a microfiber cloth and a proper cleaning process. Furthermore, he emphasizes that this is not a phenomenon exclusive to the iPhone 17 Pro: it can also be observed in other products with anodized aluminum if similar conditions of contact and wear occur.
To tackle the problem in stores, Apple has begun placing silicone rings on the display stands and to renew accessories that were damaged. It has also reinforced the cleaning protocol of the sample units, using internally indicated solutions to remove adhered residues without affecting the material.
The company admits that already affected devices on display may not recover their original appearance if there was prolonged contact with aggressive surfaces, so the priority is prevent further incidents with revised displays and improved maintenance practices.
The camera module and wear on the edges
Another aspect of “scratchgate” focuses on the edges of the camera module. Repair technicians have warned that very sharp edges are a sensitive area for anodizing: with use, small cosmetic abrasions can appear on the edges. most exposed corners.
Apple, for its part, maintains that the design of the photographic set follows similar criteria to other anodized products from its catalog and has passed internal durability tests. Even so, the company recognizes that it is normal for anodized aluminum to present wear over time at points of greatest friction.
It is important to differentiate between cosmetic marks and structural damage: the former affect the device aesthetics without compromising its operation. In practice, factors such as the type of support surface, the cleanliness of the environment and the condition of the accessories greatly influence the appearance of these external signs.
Anyone who wants to minimize risks can use covers and avoid damaged accessories or with direct metal contact. In any case, the company refers to its official support to assess each situation and recommends using cleaning methods appropriate if surface residues are detected.
As a backdrop, reputational impact is once again key. The "scratchgate" label joins others viral episodes that have shaped the conversation around the iPhone. Beyond the noise, Apple has made moves in its stores to reduce the incidence and offer a more consistent experience at points of sale.
The scenario that remains is clear: there are cases of visible marks, an official explanation that points to waste and concrete measures in exhibitors and cleaning; there is also added sensitivity in areas such as the camera module. However, the problem is largely cosmetic and depends largely on the contact with supports and accessories, so prevention and care of the environment of use make the difference.
