A recent examination of the iPhone 17 Pro has revealed noticeable scratches around the camera area under digital microscopy. David Niebuhr, an engineer and mechanical engineering professor, discussed the potential cause of this issue with iFixit. He suggested that the sharp edge of the camera bump, which has uneven anodization, contributes to the visibility of scratches. Niebuhr noted that a more gradual curve could have mitigated this problem, implying that design choices may play a role in the damage observed.
iFixit also pointed out that unless users employ a case, the camera plateau of the iPhone 17 Pro is likely to incur damage at some point during its use. This raises questions about the durability of the device’s design in everyday scenarios. In terms of repairability, iFixit recognized that the iPhone 17 Pro features a screwed-in battery, which is a positive aspect. However, they criticized the requirement for users to remove the screen for most repairs, a design choice that contrasts with the new iPhone Air model, which reportedly allows for easier access for repairs without screen removal.
This discussion highlights ongoing concerns regarding the balance between design aesthetics and functional durability in smartphone engineering.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/news/784324/apple-iphone-17-pro-ifixit-teardown-scratch