iPhone 17 “Scratchgate”: Why Apple’s New Phone Scratches So Easily — and How to Protect Yours

iPhone 17 Launch Hit by Scratch Complaints

Apple’s iPhone 17 series has only just hit stores, but early adopters are already reporting visible scratches and scuffs on their new devices. The issue has become so widespread that it’s been dubbed “Scratchgate”.

At Dead or Alive Technology in Wishaw, North Lanarkshire, we’ve already seen interest from customers worried about durability and the long-term look of their new iPhones. In this blog, we’ll cover:

• Why the iPhone 17 is scratching so easily
• Which models and colours are most affected
• What you can do to protect your device
• How professional iPhone repair services can restore damage

Why Does the iPhone 17 Scratch So Easily?

Reports from New York, London, Hong Kong and Shanghai confirm that iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max models — especially in Deep Blue — are showing visible scratches on demo units and newly unboxed devices.

Here are the key reasons:

• Material change: Apple switched back to anodized aluminium, which is lighter but less durable than titanium used in previous Pro models.
• Thin protective coating: The anodized layer is prone to cracking and flaking at edges, exposing the bare aluminium underneath.
• Sharp camera housing edges: The raised camera island concentrates wear, making scuffs more likely.
• Dark finishes highlight damage: Scratches are more obvious on Deep Blue and Black models, as lighter aluminium shows through.
• MagSafe marks: Some users also report circular impressions left by MagSafe chargers.

Has This Happened Before?

This isn’t Apple’s first durability issue:

• iPhone 6 Bendgate: phones bent under pressure.
• iPhone 4 Antennagate: grip interference caused signal loss.
• Earlier black iPhones: finishes scratched easily, leading Apple to drop certain colours.

Now with the iPhone 17 Scratchgate, Apple faces another test of its design decisions.

What This Means for iPhone Owners

While scratches are mainly cosmetic, they:

• Lower resale value
• Ruin the premium look of a flagship phone
• May spread into deeper damage if left unchecked

For customers in Wishaw, North Lanarkshire, and across the UK, our advice is clear: act early to prevent damage.

How to Protect Your iPhone 17

At Dead or Alive Technology, we recommend:

1. Inspect straight out of the box – Photograph and record any marks in case of warranty disputes.
2. Apply screen and back protectors immediately – High-quality films or tempered glass reduce wear.
3. Use a premium case – With shock-absorbing corners and raised lips to protect edges.
4. Keep it separate – Never carry your iPhone with keys or coins.
5. Clean safely – Use a microfiber cloth to remove dust before wiping, to avoid micro-scratches.

Repair Options if Your iPhone 17 Scratches

If your iPhone already has visible scratches:

• Minor scuffs: Sometimes treatable with polishing, but this is risky at home.
• Deep scratches or coating damage: A back glass replacement or chassis swap may be the best option.
• Severe cosmetic issues: Professional restoration returns your device to like-new condition.

At Dead or Alive Technology, we specialise in:

• iPhone screen and back glass repairs
• Chassis replacements
• Protective installation services (screen/back protectors and cases)

We serve Wishaw, Motherwell, Glasgow, Edinburgh, and across the UK with in-store, collection, and mail-in repair options.

Final Thoughts

The iPhone 17 may be Apple’s most advanced smartphone yet, but Scratchgate shows that even premium devices need proper protection.

If you’ve already noticed scratches or want to avoid them entirely, Dead or Alive Technology can help. We provide expert iPhone repair services in Wishaw, North Lanarkshire, and offer UK-wide collection and delivery.

Call to Action:
Protect your iPhone 17 today — contact Dead or Alive Technology on 01698 909 099 or book your repair online at www.deadoralivetechnology.com.