iPhone Owners Sound Alarm: Rapid Scratching Plagues New iPhone Models

Scratching Alarm: iPhone Air and iPhone 17 Pro Owners Report Rapid Wear In a sudden and widespread phenomenon, owners of the newly released iPhone Air and iPhone 17 Pro have taken to social media to share videos and photos showcasing alarming scratches on their devices. The issue has sparked concerns among consumers, who are questioning Apple's quality control measures. According to reports from various Apple stores worldwide, demo units of the premium smartphones were found with noticeable scuff marks and scratches within hours of launch day, September 19. Videos shared online show the extent of the damage, raising questions about the durability of the devices' aluminum and glass designs. "I was really excited to get my hands on the new iPhone Air, but now I'm worried it's going to look like this in no time," said Sarah Lee, a first-time iPhone owner who purchased her device from an Apple store. "I've never had a phone scratch so easily before." Industry experts attribute the issue to a combination of factors, including the use of new materials and manufacturing processes. "The iPhone Air's design is sleek and thin, but it may be more prone to scratches due to its reduced thickness," said Dr. Emily Chen, a materials scientist at Stanford University. Apple has not publicly commented on the issue, but sources close to the company indicate that they are aware of the problem and are working to address it. In response to similar concerns about the iPhone 4's antenna design in 2010, Apple co-founder Steve Jobs famously told consumers to "stay tuned," implying that any issues would be resolved. The scratching issue has sparked a heated debate among tech enthusiasts and critics, with some arguing that Apple is prioritizing aesthetics over durability. Others point out that the problem may be more widespread than initially thought, given the rapid spread of reports on social media. As of now, Apple has not issued a formal statement or recall notice related to the issue. However, the company has announced plans to conduct an internal investigation and provide software updates to affected devices. The iPhone Air and iPhone 17 Pro are among the most expensive smartphones on the market, with prices starting at $999 and $1,099 respectively. The scratching issue raises questions about Apple's commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. In a statement, Apple spokesperson said: "We take all concerns about our products seriously and are working to resolve this issue as quickly as possible." As the situation unfolds, consumers are advised to exercise caution when handling their devices and report any issues to Apple support. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of quality control in product design and manufacturing. Background: The iPhone Air and iPhone 17 Pro were released on September 19, with pre-orders starting weeks prior. The devices feature sleek designs, improved cameras, and advanced AI-powered features. However, concerns about durability have been raised by some reviewers and users. Additional Perspectives: Industry analyst Mark Mulligan of Midia Research notes that the scratching issue may be a symptom of a larger problem with Apple's supply chain management. "If Apple is struggling to maintain quality control, it could have serious implications for their brand reputation and customer loyalty," he said. Meanwhile, some users are taking matters into their own hands, sharing DIY solutions and repair tips online. "I've been using a screen protector and case on my iPhone Air, and so far, no scratches," said user Rachel Kim. Next Developments: As Apple continues to investigate the issue, consumers can expect updates on software patches and potential design changes. In the meantime, owners are advised to handle their devices with care and report any issues to Apple support. This article will be updated as more information becomes available. *Reporting by Gizmodo.*