Table of Contents
- 1. TL;DR: Scratch issues on the iPhone 17 Pro
- 2. Introduction to the iPhone 17 Pro scratch problem
- 3. Details of iFixit’s analysis
- 4. Causes of the scratch problem
- 5. Implications for repairability
- 6. Conclusions and recommendations
- 7. Scratch Issues on the iPhone 17 Pro: A Detailed Analysis
TL;DR: Scratch issues on the iPhone 17 Pro
- The anodized finish of the iPhone 17 Pro is prone to scratches, especially around the camera platform.
- iFixit conducted a detailed analysis showing that the camera-edge design contributes to this problem.
- The device’s repairability has been affected, although improvements such as a screwed-in battery were introduced.
- The iPhone 17 Pro’s repairability score is 7 out of 10.
Introduction to the iPhone 17 Pro scratch problem
The iPhone 17 Pro has raised concerns due to its vulnerability to scratches, particularly in the area around the camera platform. This issue has been the subject of an exhaustive analysis by iFixit, which used microscopes to examine the damage and underlying causes. The combination of an anodized finish and a specific design has led many users to report visible damage on their devices.
Details of iFixit’s analysis
Disassembly methodology
iFixit carried out a detailed disassembly of the iPhone 17 Pro, using specialized tools to assess the device’s durability. Scratch tests were performed in different areas, focusing on the camera platform, where significant damage was observed.
Scratch test results
The results showed that the camera platform is especially susceptible to scratches. According to David Niebuhr, a mechanical engineering professor, the observed damage is called “spalling”, which occurs due to the lack of adhesion of the anodized finish on the camera’s sharp edges. iFixit concluded that, unless a case is used, this area is likely to suffer damage during normal use of the device.
Causes of the scratch problem
Characteristics of the anodized finish
The anodized finish of the iPhone 17 Pro, while aesthetically appealing, has inherent weaknesses. This process creates a protective layer that is more durable on flat surfaces, but can fail on sharp edges. Niebuhr explained that “Apple could have prevented this by making a more gradual curve and avoiding a relatively sharp corner”.
Design of the camera platform edge
The design of the camera platform edge is a critical factor in susceptibility to scratches. The sharp shape of this edge prevents the anodizing from adhering evenly, resulting in
a higher risk of damage when in contact with hard objects, such as keys or coins.
Implications for repairability
Screw-fastened battery system
One of the design improvements in the iPhone 17 Pro is the introduction of a screw-fastened battery, which makes replacement easier. This system, which uses Torx Plus screws, allows users to access the battery without having to deal with complicated adhesives.
Accessibility of internal components
Despite the improvement to the battery, the overall repairability of the iPhone 17 Pro has been compromised. Unlike previous models, the current design requires the screen to be removed to access many internal components, which can complicate repairs.
Conclusions and recommendations
The iPhone 17 Pro features an attractive but fragile design, especially with regard to its anodized finish. Although advances have been made in repairability, such as the screw-fastened battery, the device remains less accessible for repairs compared to previous models. Users are advised to consider using protective cases to mitigate the risk of scratches.
Scratch Issues on the iPhone 17 Pro: A Detailed Analysis
The Fragility of the Anodized Finish
The anodized finish of the iPhone 17 Pro is aesthetically appealing, but its fragility on sharp edges has led to an increase in reports of scratches.
Implications for Repairability
The introduction of a screw-fastened battery is a positive step forward, but the overall design of the iPhone 17 Pro makes repairs more difficult, requiring the removal of the screen to access many components.
Conclusions and Recommendations
The iPhone 17 Pro, while innovative, presents significant challenges in terms of durability and repairability. Users are advised to protect their devices with suitable cases.
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Martin Weidemann is a specialist in digital transformation, telecommunications, and customer experience, with more than 20 years leading technology projects in fintech, ISPs, and digital services across Latin America and the U.S. He has been a founder and advisor to startups, works actively with internet operators and technology companies, and writes from practical experience, not theory. At Suricata he shares clear analysis, real cases, and field learnings on how to scale operations, improve support, and make better technology decisions.