One unusual controversy is brewing regarding the iPhone 17, which was just recently delivered to the owners. The very new buyers would get their iPhones out, crack them in days, sometimes even hours, and then shared the pictures on social media-rushes-on-X (formerly Twitter), Reddit, and Facebook. A viral wave of complaint was generated, with disgruntled owners calling it Scratchgate and debating whether the iPhone 17 is inferior in durability to its predecessors.
Early Complaints Go Viral
The worldwide buyers including U.S. and U.K. and Hong Kong and Indian customers have reported scratches on the display and aluminum frame of their devices. Users have spread posts about the iPhone 17 being a “scratch magnet” which went viral because several customers noticed their phones had marks before they left the Apple Store. The problem shows greater prevalence on Deep Blue Pro and black iPhone Air models because their dark finishes make micro-scratches more noticeable.
What Changed in iPhone 17’s Design?
Apple's design decisions seem to be the root cause of the durability issues. The iPhone 17 features an anodized aluminum body instead of the titanium frames which were present in previous Pro models. The material benefits of aluminum include reduced weight and simpler manufacturing yet this metal remains more delicate than others which makes its surface more susceptible to visible scratches. Apple’s glossy color finishes combined with the material change possibly reduced the durability of the product while maintaining its aesthetic appeal.
The front of Apple products still uses Ceramic Shield glass as its promoted protective material. The laboratory testing together with user-submitted videos demonstrate that keys coins and dust particles can produce minor surface marks on the device. The high price of this device at over $1,000 has created customer dissatisfaction because users expect top-tier durability from such products.
Why Scratches Appear So Quickly
The problem stems from multiple elements which create its existence. The anodized aluminum surface proves less resistant to damage than titanium when it comes to surface scratches. The surface defects become more obvious when dark coatings are used instead of light ones. The phone starts to wear down faster when people use it in actual life by putting it in their pockets with dirt and by placing it on rough surfaces at cafes and using MagSafe chargers.
Apple’s Silence and Consumer Rights
Apple has not issued any official response to the complaints according to current information. The company provides a standard warranty which covers manufacturing defects but does not cover cosmetic damage including scratches. The uncertainty about replacement eligibility affects numerous users who cannot determine their qualification status. The EU and U.K. have better consumer protection laws which could help buyers but the outcome depends on how many people are affected by this issue.
What Can Users Do?
Until Apple responds, owners are taking precautions to protect their investment. Popular advice includes:
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Applying a tempered-glass screen protector immediately.
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Using a sturdy case to shield the frame from everyday friction.
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Inspecting new devices at unboxing and documenting any visible defects.
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Avoiding storing the phone with keys, coins, or abrasive materials.
The Bigger Picture
This is not Apple’s first durability controversy—past models faced “Bendgate” and “Antennagate.” Whether “Scratchgate” reaches that level remains to be seen. For now, the sheer number of viral posts suggests Apple may need to investigate production methods or finishing processes. Loyal customers are unlikely to abandon the brand entirely, but growing frustration highlights the fine balance between design, materials, and user expectations in premium smartphones.
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