Apple Blames iPhone 17 Pro Display Model Scratching on Worn MagSafe Chargers
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Following multiple reports of some iPhone 17 Pro display models in Apple Stores showing visible scuffs and scratches, Apple issued a statement on Wednesday explaining that the marks appearing on demo iPhone 17 Pro models in Apple retail stores are caused by the MagSafe Chargers the stores use to display them and keep them charged.
In the statement issued to 9to5Mac, Apple explained that worn MagSafe charging stands are behind the marks multiple customers have reported seeing on the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max on display in its retail stores. The iPhone maker also stated that the marks are not actual scratches, but rather material transfer from the charger to the iPhone.
The company states that the material transfer is removable with proper cleaning. Other demonstrator model iPhones on display in stores are also affected by the issue, including iPhone 16 models.
The company also assured the publication that it is working to fix the issue in its stores. While Apple did not provide details about its plans, the remedy is likely to involve replacing the worn MagSafe chargers with new ones.
While Apple’s statement does address the possible reasons behind the in-store scuffing on display iPhones, third-party scratch tests — such as this one by iFixit — do show the camera plateau area on the new iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max is easily scratched.
During its recent iPhone 17 Pro teardown, iFixit conducted a scratch test on the iPhone 17 Pro’s aluminum frame. It’s results show the camera plateau to be prone to scratching. Cal Poly mechanical engineering professor David Niebuhr told iFixit that the damage is called “spalling.” The anodized finish on the iPhone 17 Pro doesn’t adhere as well on the sharp, flat edge of the camera plateau, leaving it vulnerable to having the color rubbed off when it is exposed to hard objects, such as keys, that may also be in a user’s pocket or bag.
For its part, Apple says the edges of the camera plateau on the iPhone 17 Pro are designed to stand up to daily use and undergo extensive testing before the device’s release. That said, iPhone 17 Pro users should expect to see normal wear and tear over the life of the device, including small abrasions.
Other third-party testing shows results similar to iFixit’s experience. In a video by YouTuber JerryRigEverything, the camera plateau was shown to have its raised edges scratched with a coin.
“However — in pursuit of aesthetic perfection — Apple has forgotten about the limits of coating durability. Anodizing does not stick to corners very well. And that law of physics will come back to haunt the owners of this new iPhone 17 Pro if they run without a case. The new iPhone 17 Pro camera plateau will chip.”
What does all of this mean for the average iPhone 17 Pro owner? It means that yes, your iPhone will likely pick up some scratches and dings during your day-to-day use of the device. I would using a case on your new precious. If you’re one of those who prefer to use your iPhone 17 Pro au naturel (and I’m referring to the iPhone, not the user), you should at the very least take care not to place your iPhone in the same pocket that you carry keys, knives, or rocket launchers in.
