The highly anticipated iPhone 17 Pro is here, but initial reports reveal a potential drawback: its aluminum chassis appears more susceptible to scratches and scuffs than its titanium predecessor. This is especially noticeable on the darker color options, like Deep Blue, where even minor abrasions are readily visible due to the contrast between the anodized aluminum and the underlying silver metal.
Early reviews from both consumers and tech blogs like Consomac highlight the increased visibility of scratches on the iPhone 17 Pro compared to the iPhone 16 Pro's titanium or glass back. While the aluminum body offers better drop protection than glass, preventing cracks and shattering, the superficial damage is far more apparent. The issue stems from the anodized top layer wearing away to reveal the raw aluminum beneath, resulting in noticeable scuffs and imperfections.
This concern isn't entirely new. Apple's MacBook lineup has also faced similar criticism, with Space Gray and Space Black models showing scratches more prominently than lighter-colored options. The closer the aluminum's color is to the raw metal, the less visible the damage will be. Therefore, the Cosmic Orange iPhone 17 Pro might fare better in terms of concealing minor wear and tear.
The move back to aluminum from titanium for the iPhone 17 Pro has sparked disappointment among some users, including those who have experienced the longevity of stainless steel or titanium models. Anecdotal evidence suggests that previous generations, such as the iPhone 13 Pro Max, maintained a pristine appearance even after years of use without a case.
Even MagSafe, while convenient, appears to leave minor marks on the glass back of both the iPhone 17 Pro and the iPhone 14, although these marks may be removable with cleaning. Ultimately, to preserve the aesthetic appeal of the iPhone 17 Pro, using a protective case is highly recommended. This might be a necessary trade-off to prevent the aluminum body from showing its wear too quickly.
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Originally published at: https://9to5mac.com/2025/09/19/iphone-17-pro-aluminium-scuffs-and-scratches/
