Tech blogger Zack Nelson from the popular YouTube channel JerryRigEverything has conducted his traditional durability test of the new iPhone 17 Pro and revealed a serious flaw: the device quickly gets scratched along its sharp edges. The teardown video, published on September 20, 2025, has already gained millions of views. A problem that was mentioned right after launch has now been confirmed by an independent expert.

First Warning Signs

Right after the release of the iPhone 17 Pro, Bloomberg noted that demo models in stores—especially in the Deep Blue and Space Black colors of the iPhone Air—showed noticeable scratches from MagSafe chargers and chips around the camera module. Users complained that even light contact with keys or coins left marks. Apple has not yet commented, but bloggers and experts are already analyzing the causes.

Nelson’s Test: Scratches on Sharp Edges

In his video, Zack Nelson tested the iPhone 17 Pro using his standard procedure: Mohs hardness scale scratch test, bend test, and exposure to everyday objects. The results confirmed the concerns:

  • Camera module: sharp edges proved to be the most vulnerable. The coating wore off quickly, exposing the silver-colored metal under the anodization.
  • Side frames: scratches from keys and coins were visible but could be easily polished out. Flat surfaces showed better resistance.
  • Overall verdict: the iPhone 17 Pro survived the bend test without deformation, but aesthetics suffered due to design choices.

Nelson remarked: “Apple chose sharp edges for style, but it comes at the cost of durability. The coating on the corners is weaker than on flat surfaces.”

The Reason: Aluminum Instead of Titanium

Experts link the issue to the material of the chassis. In the iPhone 16 Pro, Apple used titanium—a strong, scratch-resistant metal. For the 17 Pro, Apple reverted to aluminum—lighter and cheaper, but softer. While anodization gives aluminum attractive colors, its coating wears off faster on sharp corners, especially with friction.

"Switching from titanium was a move toward cost savings and lighter weight, but at the price of durability," industry publications note. International industrial design standards recommend rounded edges for better protection, but Apple opted for sharp lines in favor of aesthetics.

What Users Can Do

To minimize risks:

  • Use a case that protects the edges, especially the camera.
  • Avoid pockets or surfaces with abrasive objects (like keys).
  • Regularly clean the device with a microfiber cloth.

Apple may issue updated coating methods or guidelines, but for now, iPhone 17 Pro owners are left with caution as the best defense.

In Short…

JerryRigEverything’s test confirmed that the iPhone 17 Pro scratches easily on sharp edges due to its aluminum frame and anodized coating. It’s Apple’s compromise between style and durability, where aesthetics won. Users are advised to use protective cases to maintain the phone’s appearance. The new flagship remains powerful, but it demands extra care—a lesson for future models.