Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro Can Be Easily Scratched — Here’s Why

Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro can be easily scratched, and early durability tests are already raising eyebrows among fans. While the phone brings premium design and performance upgrades, the sharp camera bump edges appear to be its biggest weakness. For a device this expensive, that’s not the news iPhone lovers wanted to hear.

The Scratch Problem on iPhone 17 Pro

Durability expert Zack Nelson from JerryRigEverything tested the iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max, showing how quickly the anodized aluminum coating wears down. According to Nelson, the coating “does not stick to corners very well,” leaving the sharp camera plateau especially vulnerable.

This is not a random defect—it’s a known limitation of the anodizing process. Apple seemingly chose design over durability, leaving users with a phone that looks sleek but can be scuffed by something as simple as a house key or a coin.

Why the Camera Bump Is the Weak Spot

Nelson points out that Apple skipped adding a chamfer, fillet, or radius around the camera bump edges. This design choice makes the corners look sharp and modern but also creates a perfect spot for scratches to form.

In everyday use, objects in your pocket can chip away at the coating, leaving visible marks over time. On the plus side, the flat surface of the camera plateau is less vulnerable, with scratches only leaving behind dust that can be wiped away.

What This Means for iPhone 17 Pro Owners

If you’re buying Apple’s latest flagship, be prepared for cosmetic wear and tear sooner than expected. A sturdy case or skin is almost essential if you want to keep the iPhone 17 Pro looking pristine.

Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro can be easily scratched, but with the right protection, you can avoid the frustration of a premium phone losing its shine too quickly.