Tag: iPhone 17 Pro

  • Apple Clarifies Demo iPhone 17 Marks Are Not Scratches

    Apple Clarifies Demo iPhone 17 Marks Are Not Scratches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Many display units of the iPhone 17 series were found with marks due to handling by customers, raising concerns about durability.
    2. Apple clarified that the marks are not scratches but residue from worn MagSafe stands used in stores, which can be cleaned off.
    3. Other iPhone models, like the iPhone 16 series, also showed similar marks from MagSafe stands, prompting Apple to work with retailers on solutions.
    4. Apple acknowledged that the camera plateau edges on the iPhone 17 Pro are prone to wear, similar to other anodized aluminum products.
    5. Despite reports of scratches on the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, Apple maintains that the devices are designed to withstand wear, although the aluminum paint is still susceptible to damage.

    Shortly after the iPhone 17 series was released, many display units in stores worldwide were found to have scratches and marks on their backs. These units were handled by a variety of customers, some more roughly than others, leading to concerns about the durability of the devices and Apple’s choice to use aluminum for its Pro models. In response to these worries, Apple has stated that the marks seen on these units are not actually scratches.

    Explanation of the Wear

    According to a report from 9to5Mac, after consulting with Apple, it was revealed that the visible imperfections were due to worn MagSafe stands. Some retailers had used these stands to showcase the new iPhones, which apparently caused “material transfer” onto the phones. Apple asserts that these marks were not scratches but rather residue from the stands that can be easily cleaned off.

    Other Models Affected

    The report indicates that other iPhone models, including the iPhone 16 series, were similarly affected by the MagSafe stands. Apple is currently working with retailers to resolve these issues.

    Camera Plateau Concerns

    Regarding the iPhone 17 Pro’s camera plateau edges, which JerryRigEverything pointed out as particularly vulnerable to scratches, Apple claims they are designed like “anodized aluminum cases on other Apple products” and will naturally experience wear over time.

    From the information available, Apple appears to dismiss the idea of “scratchgate,” despite numerous user reports of visible scuffs and scratches on the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max models. Although the display is more scratch-resistant and the glass on the back of the Pro models is tougher, the paint on the aluminum body appears to be susceptible to scratching. A recent report highlighted that even when using cases, the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max were developing dents and scuffs.

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  • iPhone 17 Pro Beats Vivo X200 Ultra in DxOMark Camera Test

    iPhone 17 Pro Beats Vivo X200 Ultra in DxOMark Camera Test

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Vivo X200 Ultra dropped from third to fourth place in DxOMark’s smartphone camera rankings, while the iPhone 17 Pro entered the top three by a narrow margin.
    2. Many users find the iPhone 17 Pro’s ranking absurd, especially since it scored lower in the photo category compared to the Vivo X200 Ultra.
    3. The iPhone 17 Pro excels in video performance, scoring high for its ultra-wide-angle and main camera capabilities, despite its lower photo score.
    4. The Vivo X200 Ultra and Huawei Pura 80 Ultra are recommended for superior photo quality based on DxOMark’s evaluations.
    5. Minor issues in the iPhone 17 Pro’s video mode include focus and white balance challenges with moving subjects, as well as some image noise in low-light conditions.

    The French camera evaluators at DxOMark are stirring the pot again with their strict ranking system for smartphone cameras, which has produced some odd outcomes before. A new test, labeled as preliminary by DxOMark (which means not every result is out yet), is already causing a stir in the community after its release. The findings show that the Vivo X200 Ultra has dropped from third to fourth place, while the latest iPhone has squeezed into the top three by a single point, falling just behind the Oppo Find X8 Ultra and the Huawei Pura 80 Ultra.

    Community Reactions

    Many users who have both devices, like @sondesix, think this is utterly absurd. Given the score the iPhone 17 Pro received in the camera evaluation, this criticism appears to be fair. Let’s explore how the testers defended this rating for Apple’s new smartphone. Specifically in the video category, the iPhone 17 Pro scored two top marks, outshining its rivals in both ultra-wide-angle and main camera segments. This highlights how the overall score was reached, even with its lesser performance in the photo category.

    Photo Performance Compared

    The Vivo X200 Ultra clearly surpasses the iPhone 17 Pro in the Photo sub-score with 173 points against 166 points. Therefore, DxOMark suggests that for those in search of the finest camera for photos, the Vivo X200 Ultra or the Huawei Pura 80 Ultra would be a better choice, as they still dominate the custom ranking for raw photo quality. However, when looking at the custom ranking for video, the iPhone 17 Pro has now taken over first place from last year’s iPhone 16 Pro Max. Testers have noted the iPhone 17 Pro’s remarkable video capabilities, precise exposure, and consistent white balance with high dynamics, even in dim lighting. They also commend the minimal image artifacts, attractive bokeh effect, and the smooth transition among the three camera modules.

    Minor Issues Identified

    Interestingly, there are very few drawbacks mentioned. The report highlights occasional minor issues with focus and white balance for moving subjects in video mode, along with reduced texture detail near zoom settings. A bit of image noise can also be observed when shooting indoors or in low light. The complete test results are anticipated to be released shortly. Below are three comparison images from DxOMark featuring the Pura 80 Ultra, the Vivo X200 Ultra, and the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL, which further illustrate that the iPhone 17 Pro isn’t necessarily the best option in all situations, especially regarding photos.

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    iPhone 17 Pro Beats Vivo X200 Ultra in DxOMark Camera TestiPhone 17 Pro Beats Vivo X200 Ultra in DxOMark Camera TestiPhone 17 Pro Beats Vivo X200 Ultra in DxOMark Camera TestiPhone 17 Pro Beats Vivo X200 Ultra in DxOMark Camera Test

     

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  • iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max Dents and Scuffs Even in Cases

    iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max Dents and Scuffs Even in Cases

    Key Takeaways

    1. Users are reporting significant scratches and scuffs on the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max shortly after release, leading to the term “scratchgate.”
    2. Many users experienced damage from minor drops, even while using reputable protective cases like Spigen and Pelican, which are usually effective.
    3. Damage tends to occur around the top edges of the devices, raising concerns about the iPhone 17’s durability despite using protective gear.
    4. The shift from titanium to aluminum in the iPhone 17 models may contribute to increased damage due to the added weight, resulting in greater impact force.
    5. While current damage is mainly cosmetic, it suggests potential risks for more serious issues from higher drops, making AppleCare a wise investment for users.

    Apple’s latest iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max models have quickly become embroiled in what some are calling “scratchgate.” Just days after their release, several demo units and early users have reported noticeable scuffs and scratches. Recent complaints from users indicate that the issue may be even more severe; some owners claim their devices are getting damaged even while housed in protective cases.

    User Experiences

    On the subreddit r/iPhone17Pro, numerous iPhone 17 Pro users shared their experiences of damage after seemingly small drops, even with trusted cases. One user, u/Jman42023, mentioned that their new iPhone 17 Pro Max was dented after a fall from waist height while in Apple’s official Tech Woven Case. Another user, u/ChakiWRLD, expressed frustration that their iPhone 17 Pro sustained bruises from a 3-foot drop, all while using both a Spigen case and a screen protector.

    Surprising Damage Reports

    A third user, u/holden_downunder98, voiced similar complaints, stating that their iPhone 17 Pro experienced impact damage while inside a Pelican case, which is particularly shocking since Pelican cases are usually known for their robust, heavy-duty protection. The damage consistently appears around the phone’s top edges. While Apple’s case may not provide much in terms of impact resistance, Spigen and Pelican cases have a strong reputation for drop protection. In fact, Pelican rates its most basic iPhone 17 Pro cases for drops from as high as 16 feet, suggesting that they should be able to handle falls from pocket height without issue.

    Material Concerns

    The shift from titanium to aluminum seems like it might be working against Apple this time. This isn’t the first time Apple has utilized aluminum; both the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus featured frames made from 100% recycled aluminum. However, the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max are noticeably heavier than the standard versions, resulting in greater force upon impact when dropped. This could explain why even devices that are well-protected are showing visible damage after minor falls.

    Currently, the damage appears to be primarily cosmetic, yet it highlights the potential for more serious issues if the Pro models are dropped from greater heights. Using a case should still help reduce the risk of damage. Spigen has introduced rugged cases for the iPhone 17 series, and other brands like OtterBox provide even more robust options. Ultimately, it looks like having AppleCare will be essential for users this year.

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    iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max Dents and Scuffs Even in CasesiPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max Dents and Scuffs Even in CasesiPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max Dents and Scuffs Even in CasesiPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max Dents and Scuffs Even in CasesiPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max Dents and Scuffs Even in Cases

     

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  • iPhone 17 Pro Scratchgate: iFixit Reveals Aluminum Damage Risk

    iPhone 17 Pro Scratchgate: iFixit Reveals Aluminum Damage Risk

    Key Takeaways

    1. Scratchgate Issue: Reports of scratches, especially around the camera area of the iPhone 17 Pro, have been confirmed by iFixit through detailed examination.

    2. Material Weakness: The anodized aluminum layer is more fragile at sharp edges, leading to chipping and exposing the underlying metal when subjected to pressure.

    3. Repairability Changes: The iPhone 17 Pro features a battery secured with screws for easier replacement, but repairs are now more complicated as most require access through the display.

    4. Heat Management Improvement: A new vapor chamber has been added for better heat distribution and thermal efficiency, helping to manage the heat from the A19 Pro chip.

    5. User Recommendations: Owners should consider using a protective case, avoid contact with hard objects, and clean the phone gently to minimize the risk of scratches.

    From the time users started to use the iPhone 17 Pro, reports of scratches have emerged, particularly around the camera area. In a recent teardown, iFixit validated this concern through a microscope, revealing how the anodized aluminum layer peels off at sharp edges, exposing the shiny aluminum beneath. This issue has been labeled Scratchgate and has raised significant questions about Apple’s choices in materials and the overall design.

    Expert Analysis on the Problem

    iFixit enlisted the help of materials experts and utilized the Evident DSX2000 microscope to scrutinize the finish under pressure. They conducted tests using picks that simulate the hardness of coins or keys. On flat surfaces, the anodized finish fared better, with most scratches appearing superficial. However, at the sharp corner of the camera bump, the oxide layer suffered severe chipping. According to iFixit, “when faced with a pick similar to a penny, the iPhone 17 Pro’s anodized coating chips away, exposing the shiny aluminum underneath.”

    Understanding the Weakness

    To gain a clearer picture of the issue, iFixit spoke with materials scientist David Niebuhr. He indicated that the anodized layer is more fragile around sharp transitions. He noted that thickening the oxide layer wouldn’t solve the problem, as it would lead to more flaking and loss of the underlying material. As Niebuhr stated, “Apple could have avoided this by designing a smoother curve and steering clear of sharp corners.”

    Changes in Repairability

    The teardown also disclosed various modifications concerning repairability. For the first time, the iPhone’s battery is housed in a tray secured by fourteen Torx Plus screws. iFixit mentioned this as a positive change since it eliminates the messy adhesive removal usually required during battery swaps. However, Apple has removed the dual-entry repair layout. The back panel now solely allows access to the wireless charging components, while most repairs need to be done through the display, which heightens the risk of damage during servicing.

    In addition, Apple has integrated a vapor chamber for heat management in the iPhone 17 Pro. This chamber helps distribute heat via a copper lattice and enhances thermal efficiency compared to previous models. CT scans from iFixit demonstrated its placement between the battery and the logic board, effectively directing heat away from the A19 Pro chip. So far, Apple has not publicly addressed the Scratchgate issue or announced any measures to assist affected users.

    Recommendations for Users

    If you currently own or are thinking about purchasing an iPhone 17 Pro, it would be wise to use a case that shields the camera plateau, as this is the best method to minimize scratches. Refrain from tossing the phone into pockets with coins or keys, clean it gently with a soft cloth, and document any scratches right away if they show up. Although Scratchgate does not impact the phone’s performance, at this price point, any cosmetic damage can be quite frustrating for owners.

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  • iPhone Air and 17 Pro Drop Test: Surprising Shatter Results

    iPhone Air and 17 Pro Drop Test: Surprising Shatter Results

    Key Takeaways

    1. Both the iPhone Air and iPhone 17 Pro can crack their screens when dropped face-first from six feet, despite remaining functional after impacts.
    2. The iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone Air bent under 200 and 190 pounds of pressure, respectively, but both still worked afterward.
    3. The new Ceramic Shield 2 front displays are more vulnerable to face-down drops, while the new Ceramic Shield rear panels offer better protection.
    4. The iPhone 17 Pro Max has a higher resistance of 240 pounds, making it slightly more durable than the other two models.
    5. Users are advised to use protective accessories, as repair costs for damages can be very high, reaching up to $749 for the 17 Pro.

    Post a successful bend test by well-known YouTuber JerryRigEverything, Allstate Protection Plans carried out independent breakability tests that showed Apple’s latest iPhone Air and iPhone 17 Pro can still get quite damaged due to gravity. The tests utilized robotic tools such as the “DropBot” and “BendBot” to mimic everyday accidents. Both phones passed controlled bending tests without losing their functionality, yet both screens cracked when dropped face-first from a height of six feet.

    Drop Tests Reveal Weaknesses

    In the drop tests, both the iPhone Air and iPhone 17 Pro remained functional after the impact, but their new Ceramic Shield 2 front displays broke instantly when dropped face-down. When dropped back-side down, the iPhone 17 Pro only suffered minor cosmetic damage, while the Air showed cracks on its back panel but continued to work. According to Allstate, this is due to the new Ceramic Shield rear panels that have taken the place of the older glass backs on earlier iPhone models.

    Bend Test Performance

    During the bend tests conducted by Allstate, the iPhone 17 Pro bent under 200 pounds of pressure, whereas the iPhone Air bent at 190 pounds. However, both devices were still operational afterward. Although these numbers are lower than the iPhone 17 Pro Max’s impressive 240-pound resistance, they still surpass the durability standards set by the industry. The iPhone Air, which is almost 35 percent thinner than the iPhone 17 Pro, came close to matching its strength, likely thanks to its rectangular camera housing and titanium frame, as noted by Allstate.

    As stated by Jason Siciliano, who is the VP of marketing at Allstate Protection Plans, it is recommended that iPhone 17 users utilize protective accessories for their devices, since repair costs can reach as high as $749 for the 17 Pro and $699 for the Air (not including AppleCare).

    Accessory Recommendation

    Consider purchasing the Spigen tempered glass screen protector for the iPhone 17 Pro on Amazon, to help prevent damage to your device.

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  • Hidden Upgrade in Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max You Might Have Missed

    Hidden Upgrade in Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max You Might Have Missed

    Key Takeaways

    1. The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max showcase significant improvements, including aluminum unibodies and upgraded cameras that outperform the Galaxy S25 Ultra.

    2. A noteworthy enhancement is the “stronger and sharper” LED flash in the iPhone 17 Pro Max compared to its predecessor.

    3. While the flash upgrade may seem minor, it can significantly enhance nighttime photography when night modes are insufficient.

    4. Good flash performance is essential for many users who rely on their smartphones as their primary flashlights.

    5. Apple’s focus on small details, like the flash upgrade, contributes to a better overall user experience in high-end smartphones.

    With the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, Apple has shown its strength in a way that we haven’t seen for a while. Both models come with aluminum unibodies, include vapor chambers to regulate the heat from the powerful A19 Pro chip, and feature upgraded cameras that appear to surpass those found in the Galaxy S25 Ultra. Yet, amidst these significant improvements, Apple has also introduced a subtle enhancement that many users might have missed.

    Noteworthy Flash Enhancement

    According to a post on r/iPhone, the iPhone 17 Pro Max features a “stronger and sharper” LED flash compared to the iPhone 16 Pro Max. Other users on Reddit have echoed this observation, with one individual expressing amazement at the flashlight’s performance and the sound quality of the speaker.

    The Importance of Small Upgrades

    At first glance, this might not seem like a major update. Today’s smartphones typically don’t need to depend on a powerful rear flash for better nighttime photos, thanks to advancements in low-light photography and specific night modes. However, when those night modes fall short, a superior flash can really make a difference. For many, smartphones serve as their only flashlights, making a good flash an essential feature.

    Apple’s Attention to Detail

    It’s commendable that Apple has focused on these minor aspects alongside the big features that grab attention. This small change may be almost unnoticeable to most. Yet, it’s arguably these little details that enhance the user experience of high-end smartphones compared to mid-range ones.

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  • Anker Unveils Compact USB-C Charger with Digital Display

    Anker Unveils Compact USB-C Charger with Digital Display

    Key Takeaways

    1. Anker is set to launch a new USB-C charger with a smart display designed for the Apple iPhone 17 Pro.
    2. The charger, model number A121D, will have a maximum output of 45W and is expected to support fast charging.
    3. It will feature folding pins and a digital display to show charging details, similar to Anker’s other products.
    4. The official launch date for the charger is September 27th in China, with pricing and global availability still unknown.
    5. The new charger may resemble another model, A2693, which is also a 45W USB-C charger with a digital display, but details on differences are unclear.

    Anker has hinted at a new USB-C charger featuring a smart display on social media in China. In a recent Weibo post, the company revealed that this accessory, designed specifically for the newly launched Apple iPhone 17 Pro, is set to be available in this market later in September.

    Model and Specifications

    Although the post and accompanying images do not specify the exact name of the new Anker USB-C charger, it is identified by the model number A121D. This charger is anticipated to deliver a maximum output of 45W. An image showing the bottom of the device indicates that it will provide ‘X5W’ power. Apple has mentioned that the iPhone 17 Pro can achieve a 50% charge in just 20 minutes when using a minimum 40W adapter, which supports the idea of this being a 45W charger.

    Design Features

    Anker also mentions that this compact charger will feature folding pins. Additionally, it will include a digital display, similar to the brand’s new Charger (140W, 4-Port, PD 3.1) priced at $99.99 on Amazon, to show charging details. Based on the description, this teased accessory appears to resemble the rumored model A2693, which is also a 45W USB-C charger equipped with a digital display. At this point, it’s still unclear how these two products will be different from one another.

    Launch Date

    The official unveiling of the new Anker USB-C charger with a smart display is scheduled for September 27th in China. It is yet to be determined how much this product will cost in the country, and it’s uncertain when or if it will be available in other countries around the globe.

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    Anker Unveils Compact USB-C Charger with Digital Display

     

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  • iPhone 17 Pro Max Durability Test: Scratchgate Blame on Apple

    iPhone 17 Pro Max Durability Test: Scratchgate Blame on Apple

    Key Takeaways

    1. JerryRigEverything’s latest durability test criticized Apple’s design choices for the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, particularly regarding scratch issues.
    2. The anodisation process creates a protective oxide layer on the aluminum body, but it is ineffective on sharp edges, leading to vulnerability to scratches.
    3. Apple did not round the edges of the camera area for aesthetic reasons, which compromises scratch resistance compared to the rest of the device.
    4. Common items like keys and coins can easily damage the protective layer on the camera edges, unlike the rest of the phone which might only require wiping to remove scratches.
    5. The new Ceramic Shield 2 display glass shows visible scratches at Mohs level 8, indicating an improvement in durability compared to older iPhone models.

    The latest durability assessment on JerryRigEverything’s YouTube channel has been somewhat atypical. The host, Zack Nelson, known as JerryRigEverything, used a crane scale to test the iPhone Air and didn’t hold back in his critique of Apple regarding the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, which were examined in Orange and Blue, respectively. Zack pointed out that the many claims about scratched iPhones are valid and stem from issues that could have been avoided, implying that Apple is solely responsible for the situation dubbed “Scratchgate.”

    Explanation of the Issue

    JerryRigEverything provided a reasonable theory for this problem: During the anodisation process, the aluminium unibody of the phone gets a hard oxide layer, which is meant to shield the metal underneath from damage due to the environment. Even though this layer is rated at 9 on the Mohs hardness scale, it cannot be applied to sharp edges. Following the required DIN standard, Apple should have slightly rounded the edges of the camera area to enhance scratch resistance, akin to the rest of the device. However, it seems the company chose not to do this for aesthetic reasons.

    Consequences of Design Choices

    This choice has significant effects on the look of the large camera module. JRE effectively illustrated this using a microscope, showing that common items like keys and coins can easily scrape away the thin protective layer on the edges. While scratch residues from other objects can be wiped off the rest of the iPhone, the edges of the camera plateau are different; the delicate oxide layer actually comes off if the phone is not safeguarded by a case from the start.

    The durability test provides some confirmation of the many reports about scratched iPhone 17 demo units. Still, it’s worth noting that some scratches on the display glass or flat aluminium surfaces might be removable with a simple wipe, which has been seen in earlier iPhone models. The remaining parts of the durability test did not highlight any other serious issues: The new Ceramic Shield 2 display glass began to show visible scratches at Mohs level 8 (similar to the iPhone Air), indicating a clear improvement compared to older iPhone versions.

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  • iPhone 17 Pro Max Camera Beats Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra in Reviews

    iPhone 17 Pro Max Camera Beats Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra in Reviews

    Key Takeaways

    1. The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max feature a 48MP 4x telephoto lens, enhancing camera performance significantly compared to the regular iPhone 17.
    2. Early comparisons between the iPhone 17 Pro and Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra highlight the iPhone’s superior low-light and nighttime photography capabilities.
    3. The new 18MP Center Stage front camera on the iPhone 17 series offers better versatility and performance, especially for nighttime selfies and video stabilization.
    4. Both iPhones and Galaxy S25 Ultra struggle with macro photography, but the Galaxy performs slightly better in this area, while dedicated telemacro options exist in other brands.
    5. The iPhone 17 Pro outperforms the Galaxy S25 Ultra in DxOMark rankings, but Samsung offers unique features like 8K video and advanced AI capabilities.

    One of the key reasons to choose an iPhone 17 Pro or iPhone 17 Pro Max instead of the regular iPhone 17 is the enhanced camera, which now features a 48MP 4x telephoto lens. It’s not surprising that many early evaluations are concentrating on the camera’s performance, especially since we’ve already witnessed drop tests and initial teardown clips this past weekend after the phone’s official launch.

    YouTube Comparisons

    In their first videos regarding the new Pro iPhone, two prominent YouTubers have drawn comparisons to the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, which is also rather expected. This phone is the most commonly available Android flagship, even though some people argue that it struggles to compete with premium smartphone cameras from Chinese brands, like the Vivo X200 Ultra.

    Camera Innovations

    For both MrWhosetheboss and SuperSaf, the new 18MP Center Stage front-facing camera on the iPhone 17 series is a notable advancement. It not only surpasses Samsung’s equivalent in terms of dynamism but also offers more versatility with its flexible formats. The iPhone 17 excels in taking selfies at night, and its video stabilization shows improvement too. However, SuperSaf does favor selfies taken with a flash in very dark settings on the Galaxy S25 Ultra.

    Nighttime Performance

    When directly compared, the new iPhone outshines its predecessor, particularly in low-light conditions. For instance, there’s a reduction in jitter artifacts in dim videos. Numerous examples shared by these two YouTubers demonstrate that the iPhone 17 Pro Max is superior in illuminating challenging scenes. Even in telephoto comparisons, where Samsung typically excels during the day, Apple takes the lead as lighting conditions worsen. For example, text captured at 20x zoom appears clearer on the iPhones, even with Samsung’s optical advantages.

    Macro Photography

    Neither device handles macro shots flawlessly. While both Apple and Samsung can take macro pictures using their ultrawide cameras, both YouTubers agree that the Galaxy S25 Ultra does slightly better. For those looking to capture macro images with a telephoto lens, options like Vivo, Xiaomi, or Oppo flagships are preferable, as they can shoot telemacro from mere inches away. With the iPhone 17 Pro Max’s 4x telephoto, you need to be about 3 feet from the subject to achieve a clear image, while the Galaxy S25 Ultra performs in between and takes this category.

    Zoom Capabilities

    Regarding zoom, both smartphones showcase their strengths when the optical telephoto focal length is perfectly aligned. Samsung generally excels at 3x and 5x zoom, while the iPhone 17 Pro Max tends to render superior pictures at 4x and 8x. As previously mentioned, the advantage often shifts in Apple’s favor at night; however, Ice Universe has noted artifacts appearing on the Galaxy S25’s telephoto camera during daylight. In the X post linked above, images taken at approximately 9x-10x zoom reveal odd artifacts on the Galaxy S25 Ultra, attributed to Samsung’s zoom algorithms. This issue becomes even more noticeable when closely examining 30x zoom shots from both devices. Those who are willing to take the risk seem to discover more natural details on the iPhone 17 Pro, while the Galaxy S25 Ultra presents overly sharpened and distorted images.

    Overall Rankings

    The iPhone 17 Pro also significantly outperforms the Galaxy S25 Ultra in DxOMark’s assessment of top smartphone cameras. Nonetheless, both devices have their strengths and weaknesses beyond just camera capabilities. For instance, Samsung is the only brand offering 8K video, and its Galaxy AI features often operate more effectively than Apple’s Intelligence counterpart. A Pro mode is also only present on Android flagships, at least with standard software. Conversely, only Apple permits users to customize the photo style using Photographic Styles, which is somewhat achievable on Vivo and Xiaomi devices.

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  • iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone Air: Scratch Issues with Dark Colors

    iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone Air: Scratch Issues with Dark Colors

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple launched the iPhone 17 series on September 9, introducing the slim iPhone Air alongside Pro and Pro Max versions.
    2. Display units in multiple countries showed noticeable scratches after a few hours of use, raising concerns about durability.
    3. A scratch test by YouTuber Wylsacom revealed significant vulnerability to scratches, especially on the Deep Blue iPhone 17 Pro.
    4. Scratches were commonly found around the MagSafe charging area of the iPhone Air and on the back of the iPhone 17 Pro models.
    5. Apple claims the iPhone’s front is three times more resistant to scratches and the back is four times less prone to cracking than previous models, though scratch resistance on the back is not emphasized.

    Apple introduced the iPhone 17 series on September 9, bringing forth the slimmest model yet, called the iPhone Air, along with the familiar Pro and Pro Max versions. The iPhone 17 Pro features an aluminum body, while the iPhone Air has a ceramic shield on both the front and back. Nevertheless, display units at Apple Stores in China, France, and London have been observed to have noticeable scratches and marks after just a few hours of use.

    YouTuber’s Scratch Test

    On September 18, Russian YouTuber Wylsacom released a video where he conducted a scratch test on the iPhone 17 Pro. He pointed out that the Deep Blue iPhone 17 Pro showed a significant vulnerability to scratches. This observation was supported by French publication Consomac, which confirmed similar issues during their hands-on experience at the Apple Store in Lyon Confluence. The dark-colored variants, like the iPhone 17 Pro Max and Space Black iPhone Air, also experienced these problems.

    Findings on Scratches

    Scratches were especially common around the MagSafe charging area of the iPhone Air and throughout the back of the iPhone 17 Pro models. Mark Gurman from Bloomberg similarly reported finding scratches on demo units in cities like Shanghai, Hong Kong, and London. The Pro models feature an aluminum unibody, a choice made by Apple to incorporate a vapor chamber for better heat dissipation.

    The iPhone Air, in contrast, features a ceramic shield that is fairly resistant to bending, but struggles with color retention. According to Apple, the front of the phone is three times more resistant to scratches and the back is four times less prone to cracking than earlier iPhone models, though they do not emphasize the back’s scratch resistance. Many enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the well-known JerryRigEverything to test the durability of the iPhone 17 series, particularly the iPhone Air. Meanwhile, several bend tests available online demonstrate the strength of the iPhone Air.

    Wylsacom’s YouTube channel, along with reports from Consomac and Bloomberg, highlight these concerns regarding the iPhone 17 series.

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    iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone Air: Scratch Issues with Dark ColorsiPhone 17 Pro and iPhone Air: Scratch Issues with Dark ColorsiPhone 17 Pro and iPhone Air: Scratch Issues with Dark ColorsiPhone 17 Pro and iPhone Air: Scratch Issues with Dark Colors

     

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