The Launch of the iPhone 17: A New Era?

As excitement swells on iPhone 17 release day, a fresh wave of concern is rippling through the tech community, spotlighting the redesigned iPhone 17 Pro. Early reports focus on the aluminum chassis, particularly in the striking Deep Blue variant, which may be more vulnerable to visible scratches and scuffs than its predecessors.

Scuff-Central: The Vulnerability of Anodized Aluminum

The issue stems from the new anodized aluminum finish, which exposes the raw silver metal beneath. Unlike the titanium sides or glass backs of the iPhone 16 Pro, any minor blemishes on the iPhone 17 Pro are more apparent. Shoppers visiting Apple Stores reported noticeable scruffs on demo units, raising alarm bells among potential customers.

Impact Scratches: The Reality of Daily Use

If dropped, the aluminum casing is likely to develop unsightly nicks, as the painted surface is easily worn away, revealing the raw aluminum underneath. This is a significant shift from previous iPhone models, where the glass's hairline scratches were less easy to detect. However, while the iPhone 16 faced risks of cracking, the aluminum body of the iPhone 17 Pro may hold up better against substantial drops.

Durability Upgrades: Is It All Doom and Gloom?

On a brighter note, the back glass incorporates a Ceramic Shield covering this year, enhancing durability and improving resistance to cracks compared to the iPhone 16's glass back. Nevertheless, users should be cautious, as even with these upgrades, the soft aluminum finish may still fall prey to everyday wear and tear.

Conclusion: Choose Your Color Wisely!

Additionally, reports from French tech blog Consomac noted similar scuffs and scratches encountered during store visits, particularly where the MagSafe puck made contact. Interestingly, lighter-colored iPhones, like the new Cosmic Orange, are expected to show less damage than the darker Deep Blue. So while the iPhone 17 Pro dazzles in design, users may want to prioritize protection with a sturdy case.