{
  "id": 6134744,
  "title": "I Used the iPhone 17 Pro Max Without a Case for a Year. Here’s How It Looks Now",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/07/i-used-the-iphone-17-pro-max-without-a-case-for-a-year-heres-how-it",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-09-07T12:00:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "CNET",
    "slug": "cnet",
    "url": "https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/i-used-the-iphone-17-pro-max-without-a-case-for-a-year-heres-how-it-looks-now/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "A reporter tested an iPhone 17 Pro Max without a case for one year to assess the impact on its appearance. Apple marketed the new models as highly durable. However, early reports of scratched and discolored demo units prompted Apple to attribute the initial scratching to worn-out MagSafe risers. Andrew Lanxon from CNET chemically treated his orange iPhone to test discoloration claims and found no issues for most users. The reporter kept the phone caseless, using only a ring stand on its back for 11 months. Despite frequent drops on various surfaces, the device remained largely unscathed, both front and back. The iPhone 17 models feature upgraded Ceramic Shield 2 protection, which Apple claims offers 3x better scratch resistance. When compared to a year-old iPhone 16 Pro with similar usage, the 17 Pro Max appeared far less scratched and showed no significant screen damage, while the older model had prominent scratches. The back of the 17 Pro Max had minor dents but retained its pristine screen appearance. A permanent silver mark and fading orange polish on the camera island were the only cosmetic changes. The reporter found the screen smoother and less prone to scratches compared to the older model. Overall, the reporter was impressed with the iPhone 17 Pro Max's durability after a year of extensive use.",
  "summary": "Apple promised improved durability for the iPhone 17 Pro, and its Ceramic Shield 2 protection might be the biggest durability upgrade in years.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}