iPhone 17 Pro with scratches? Apple explains the cause in its stores

The iPhone 17 Pro is not only a topic of discussion about new features and technology, but also about visible scratches on the display units in Apple Stores. After photos and reports circulated, Apple has now issued a statement. It turns out that the cause is not the iPhone itself, but the way the devices are presented in stores.

The iPhone 17 Pro and its big brother, the iPhone 17 Pro Max, are Apple's new flagships. Demand is high, but at the same time, doubts about the devices' durability have begun to emerge. In many stores, visible marks on the screens appeared to be scratches. Apple has now clarified the cause, explaining how such marks can occur and what buyers can really expect.

MagSafe chargers as the cause

Apple confirms that the scratches on the iPhone 17 Pro models in stores are caused by the MagSafe charging stations used for display. Specifically, these are worn chargers transferring material to the devices. According to Apple, these are not actual scratches in the glass or casing, but rather residue created during charging. This can be easily removed by cleaning. The issue affects not only the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max, but also the iPhone 16. Apple announced that it will replace the worn MagSafe charging stations in stores to prevent further visible marks.

Scratch tests reveal weak point on the camera module

Independent of the MagSafe issues, there's another issue. Various scratch tests have shown that the area around the camera on the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max is prone to marks. The edges of the camera cutout, in particular, aren't completely resistant to minor scuffs. Apple explains that these edges are deliberately engineered to be durable. They're made of the same material as other Apple aluminum devices, such as the MacBook. They undergo testing before release, but minor scuffs in everyday use are unavoidable. Apple describes this as normal wear and tear, which can develop over time.

What this means for buyers

It's crucial for buyers to know that the visible marks on the iPhone 17 Pro devices in stores aren't a quality issue. They're due to worn accessories, not the smartphone itself. Cleaning will remove the residue. The iPhone 17 Pro remains suitable for everyday use. As with any device with aluminum parts, minor abrasion marks may occur in heavily used areas. This is normal and does not affect functionality or the phone's quality.

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iPhone 17 Pro shows strength in everyday use

The iPhone 17 Pro remains a robust and high-quality premium smartphone. The apparent scratches in Apple Stores are the result of worn MagSafe charging docks and are easily removed. While normal wear and tear may appear in the camera area over time, this does not detract from the quality and durability of the device. (Image: Shutterstock / Anna Hoychuk)