Worn MagSafe stands were transferring residue onto iPhone 17 demo units, not scratching the glass.
Apple Stores are adding silicone rings to charging stands to reduce scuffing.
Staff have been instructed to use a salt-based cleaning solution for demo phones.
Since Apple launched the iPhone 17 series globally, it has been in the news for scratches and dents. Now, Apple is acting quickly to address growing concerns about its iPhone 17 display units in retail stores. The problem, discovered by customers in Apple Stores shortly after the release of the iPhone 17 lineup, sparked speculation about whether the company’s latest flagship had durability flaws.
SurveyMany customers pointed out the visible scratches on the back glass and the near-camera bump on the demo models. Apple investigated and concluded that the flaws were not caused by iPhone defects, but by aging MagSafe display stands used in some stores. These stands, which have a metal charging ring, may chip or wear down over time. When demo devices are lifted from or placed on the stands, residue from the worn metal is transferred to the phone’s surface. Apple stated that these marks are not scratches in the glass, but rather removable residue.
Apple has reportedly begun making changes to the retail experience. Some stores, including the recently opened one in Tokyo, have added silicone rings around the MagSafe stands to reduce direct contact with the phone’s back glass. This update aims to prevent further residue transfer or scuffing.
Along with the hardware fix, Apple has instructed retail employees to implement new cleaning routines for demo units. According to reports, staff have been instructed to clean the backs of iPhones more frequently with a special salt-based solution mixed with their standard cleaning liquid. Early attempts by users to replicate this solution at home have yielded promising results, with marks removed more effectively than water or isopropyl alcohol.
Interestingly, these measures will reduce the future incidents, they will not fix demo models that have been marked already. Apple has not confirmed if such units will be replaced.
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Ashish Singh
Ashish Singh is the Chief Copy Editor at Digit. He's been wrangling tech jargon since 2020 (Times Internet, Jagran English '22). When not policing commas, he's likely fueling his gadget habit with coffee, strategising his next virtual race, or plotting a road trip to test the latest in-car tech. He speaks fluent Geek. View Full Profile
