Since the iPhone 17 was released on September 19, 2025,
it has been plagued by a “Scratchgate” controversy, with many customers reporting that the phones are very susceptible to scratches and scuffs. The issue primarily affects certain finishes on the iPhone 17 Pro, Pro Max, and the new iPhone Air, with some users reporting scratches on display models in Apple Stores.
iPhone 17 “Scratchgate” complaints
- Scratch-prone finishes: Many users are complaining that the Deep Blue iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, along with the Black iPhone Air, are developing visible scratches and scuffs with minimal use.
- Design-related vulnerability: The issue appears linked to the material and coating used for these specific models. The aluminum unibody of the iPhone 17 Pro and Air has been criticized for its durability compared to the titanium chassis of previous “Pro” models.
- Camera plateau scratches: Some reports and teardowns from tech experts like iFixit indicate that the anodized layer around the camera plateau is a weak spot and particularly vulnerable to scratching from keys and other objects.
- “Disappointing” durability: Many customers have taken to social media, including X (formerly Twitter), to express disappointment, claiming that the iPhone 17’s durability is worse than their older iPhones. Some have even posted pictures and videos showing superficial damage.
Other launch issues and complaints
While “Scratchgate” is the most prominent complaint, the iPhone 17 launch has also seen other reported problems:
- eSIM issues: Some customers have reported that the eSIM setup can be more inconvenient than a physical SIM, especially when switching devices for repair or while traveling internationally.
- iOS 18 software bugs: The iOS 18 update, which launched with the iPhone 16 series, experienced numerous initial bugs, and some issues have persisted, including performance lag and crashing apps.
- Hardware and connectivity problems (iPhone 16): While primarily related to the older iPhone 16, some issues have persisted into the current lineup due to the new hardware and software. These included frozen screens, overheating, and inconsistent Bluetooth connectivity, many of which were later addressed with software updates.