Apple's iPhone 17 Pro, Air Face Scratch Complaints Amid Aluminum Frame Shift

Apple's newly released iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone Air have sparked widespread complaints about their susceptibility to scratches, particularly in the Deep Blue and Space Black models. Despite Apple's marketing of the iPhone 17 Pro as their most scratch-resistant phone ever, users and display units have shown visible scuff marks within hours of launch, leading to a backlash dubbed "Scratchgate." The controversy is linked to Apple's switch from titanium to aluminum frames, a change driven by engineering needs to better manage heat generated by more powerful chips, though aluminum is more prone to visible scratches, especially in darker finishes. The issue has trended heavily on social media platforms like Weibo and X, where photos and user complaints have circulated extensively, raising concerns over the durability of the devices given their premium price points. While some reviewers report their phones remain unscratched with careful use, the overall sentiment reflects frustration, particularly as dark-colored models show more visible damage compared to lighter shades. Apple has yet to officially address the scratch concerns, even as demand for the iPhone 17 series remains strong and backorders persist in some regions.