The iPhone 17 Pro has taken the tech world by storm with its sleek design, powerful performance, and advanced camera system. However, recent durability tests have uncovered a surprising weakness that has sparked concern among users. While Apple’s marketing focuses on the phone’s improved durability, these tests show that certain parts of the iPhone 17 Pro are more vulnerable to scratches than expected.
This article explores the results of these tests, highlights the most affected areas, and provides practical tips on how to protect your device. If you want to keep your iPhone 17 Pro looking flawless, iphone17case.co.uk offers premium iPhone 17 cases, iPhone 17 Air Cases, iPhone 17 Pro Cases, and iPhone 17 Pro Max Cases designed to shield your phone from damage while maintaining its elegance.
What the Durability Tests Revealed
Sharp Edges Around the Camera Plateau Are Vulnerable
Durability tests revealed that while most flat surfaces of the iPhone 17 Pro withstand everyday wear, the sharp edges of the camera plateau are extremely prone to scratches and chips. The anodized coating, which is supposed to protect the aluminum frame, does not adhere well to sharp corners. As a result, even minor contact with hard objects like keys or coins can strip away the coating and expose the raw metal beneath.
This makes the camera plateau one of the most delicate parts of the device and a key area to protect with a specialized phone case.
Aluminium Frame vs. Titanium Build
Apple’s decision to transition from a titanium frame to a lighter aluminum unibody has pros and cons. While aluminum makes the iPhone 17 Pro lighter and improves heat dissipation, it’s also softer than titanium, which makes it more prone to scratches and dents. Users who frequently carry their phones in pockets or bags with other items may notice cosmetic damage sooner than expected.
Display and Flat Surfaces Are Resilient
The good news is that the Ceramic Shield 2 display performs well in durability tests. It resists scratches from everyday items and only shows damage when subjected to very hard materials. Similarly, the flat aluminum surfaces of the phone body are less prone to scratches compared to the sharp edges of the camera module, making the main issue more localized.
Dark Colors Show Scratches More Clearly
The finish of your iPhone 17 Pro also plays a significant role in scratch visibility. Darker colors like Space Black and Deep Blue tend to highlight scratches and chips, while lighter colors make them less noticeable. If you care about keeping your phone’s appearance pristine, this is an important factor to consider when choosing a model.
Why This Issue Matters
1. Aesthetic Appeal – Maintaining the Premium Look
The iPhone 17 Pro is designed to be sleek and luxurious, crafted with premium materials like titanium and ceramic glass. However, scratches and scuffs can quickly ruin its flawless appearance. Even minor marks on the screen or frame are highly visible, especially under bright light. For many users, their iPhone isn’t just a phone—it’s also a fashion accessory and a status symbol. Scratches not only detract from the visual appeal but also make the device look older and more worn than it actually is.
2. Resale Value – Protecting Your Investment
iPhones hold their value well, but visible damage such as scratches, dents, or chips can significantly lower resale or trade-in prices. A pristine iPhone 17 Pro can fetch hundreds of dollars more than one with noticeable wear and tear. If you plan to upgrade to future iPhone models, keeping your current device in excellent condition is crucial. In some cases, a single deep scratch on the display can reduce the value by 20–30%, making it a costly mistake not to protect your device.
3. Brand Image – Apple’s Reputation at Stake
Apple markets the iPhone 17 Pro as a luxury, cutting-edge device that combines performance with aesthetics. When customers notice scratches forming within weeks or even days of purchase, it can damage Apple’s reputation. It raises questions about the durability of their premium materials and the justification for the phone’s high price point. Negative user experiences can spread quickly across social media and tech forums, impacting brand trust and potentially influencing purchasing decisions.
4. Longevity – Preventing Further Deterioration
At first, scratches may seem like a purely cosmetic issue, but they can lead to long-term problems. Small cracks or chips in the glass can expand over time due to pressure, heat, or accidental drops. This gradual deterioration may eventually compromise the device’s structural integrity or even affect touchscreen responsiveness. By addressing scratches early and using protective accessories like iPhone 17 Pro Cases, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your device and maintain its performance for years to come.
Apple’s Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths
Apple has made significant improvements to the iPhone 17 Pro’s structural strength. The frame remains solid under pressure, and the Ceramic Shield 2 display is among the most durable on the market. Drop tests have shown the phone to be highly resistant to bending or catastrophic damage.
Weaknesses
The major flaw lies in the design of the camera plateau. Its sharp, protruding edges are challenging to protect with the anodized coating, leaving them exposed to wear and tear. Users who choose darker finishes will also notice scratches sooner, as the imperfections stand out more against the dark surfaces.
How to Protect Your iPhone 17 Pro
The best way to prevent scratches and chips is to invest in reliable protection. Here’s what you can do:
1. Use Premium Protective Cases
A high-quality case is the most effective defense for your iPhone 17 Pro. At iphone17case.co.uk, you’ll find:
- iPhone 17 Cases – Versatile designs for the standard iPhone 17, offering full-body protection.
- iPhone 17 Air Cases – Slim and lightweight options that maintain the sleek profile of the iPhone 17 Air.
- iPhone 17 Pro Cases – Built specifically for the Pro model, with extra coverage around the vulnerable camera plateau edges.
- iPhone 17 Pro Max Cases – Heavy-duty protection for the largest model, combining style with superior durability.
These cases are engineered to shield the delicate areas identified in durability tests, especially the camera module, while maintaining easy access to all buttons and ports.
2. Choose a Lighter Color Option
If scratches bother you, lighter-colored phones like Silver or White hide small imperfections much better than darker finishes.
3. Keep It Separate from Sharp Objects
Avoid carrying your iPhone alongside keys, coins, or other items that could scratch its surfaces. A dedicated pocket or bag compartment works best.
4. Consider Screen Protectors and Bumpers
Adding a tempered glass screen protector or edge bumper can provide extra layers of defense, especially for the display and corners.
Why Shop at iphone17case.co.uk
Your iPhone 17 Pro is a premium device that deserves premium protection. iphone17case.co.uk specializes in cases designed specifically for the iPhone 17 series, including:
- iPhone 17 Cases for standard models.
- iPhone 17 Air Cases for lightweight, minimalist protection.
- iPhone 17 Pro Cases to safeguard the camera plateau and sharp edges.
- iPhone 17 Pro Max Cases for ultimate coverage and style.
Each case is crafted using high-quality materials to ensure long-lasting durability and a perfect fit, keeping your phone safe while maintaining its luxurious aesthetic.
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FAQs
1: What part of the iPhone 17 Pro is most vulnerable to scratches?
The sharp edges around the camera plateau are the most vulnerable. The anodized coating wears off quickly, exposing the aluminum frame underneath.
2: Are the scratches only cosmetic?
Yes, the scratches are primarily cosmetic and don’t affect performance. However, they can reduce resale value and worsen over time if left unprotected.
3: Which colors are most prone to visible scratches?
Dark colors like Space Black and Deep Blue tend to show scratches more clearly than lighter finishes like Silver or White.
4: What’s the best way to protect my iPhone 17 Pro?
Using a high-quality case from iphone17case.co.uk, such as the iPhone 17 Pro Case or iPhone 17 Pro Max Case, is the most effective way to protect your phone.
5: Do the iPhone 17 Air and standard iPhone 17 models have similar issues?
While the scratch issue is most pronounced on the Pro models, using cases like the iPhone 17 Cases or iPhone 17 Air Cases helps prevent cosmetic damage across all models.
Summary
The iPhone 17 Pro is a remarkable device, but durability tests have exposed a weakness in its design: the sharp edges around the camera plateau are highly prone to scratches and chips. While the display and flat surfaces are impressively resilient, darker color finishes highlight imperfections, making protection more important than ever.
To keep your phone looking brand-new, invest in premium protection from iphone17case.co.uk. Whether you need iPhone 17 Cases, iPhone 17 Air Cases, iPhone 17 Pro Cases, or iPhone 17 Pro Max Cases, you’ll find stylish, durable options that safeguard your device while enhancing its look.
Don’t let scratches ruin your iPhone 17 experience protect it today with a case designed for ultimate coverage and style.
