The iPhone 17 Pro Max is expected to feature several enhancements aimed at improving its resistance to scratches and overall durability. One of the key upgrades is the adoption of a super-hard anti-reflective layer on the display glass. This new coating is designed to be significantly more scratch-resistant than the current Ceramic Shield used in previous iPhone models, such as the iPhone 15 series. The anti-reflective properties are also expected to reduce glare, making the screen easier to view in bright conditions[2][4][5].
While the exact technology behind this new glass is not fully detailed, it is speculated that Apple might be using or developing something similar to Corning's Gorilla Glass Armor, which offers enhanced scratch resistance compared to standard glass materials[2][4]. Apple has invested heavily in advanced glass technologies, including a significant investment in Corning's research and development, which has led to improvements like Ceramic Shield[4].
In addition to the display enhancements, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is expected to feature a part-glass and part-aluminum back design, replacing the all-glass back seen in current models. This design change could potentially offer better durability and resistance to scratches on the aluminum parts, although the glass sections will still be susceptible to scratches unless protected by the new anti-reflective coating[1].
The switch from titanium to aluminum frames is also noteworthy, as aluminum is said to have a lower carbon footprint, aligning with Apple's environmental goals[1]. However, this change does not directly enhance scratch resistance but is part of a broader design and material strategy for the device.
Overall, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is expected to offer improved scratch resistance primarily through its advanced display glass technology, while other design changes focus on durability and environmental sustainability.
Citations:
[1] https://www.moneycontrol.com/technology/apple-iphone-17-pro-max-expected-to-get-a-major-material-change-article-12962496.html
[2] https://www.macrumors.com/2024/03/19/iphone-17-anti-reflective-display/
[3] https://www.reddit.com/r/apple/comments/1j5lw7e/iphone_17_pro_max_said_to_be_thicker_to/
[4] https://www.idownloadblog.com/2024/03/19/iphone-17-screen-protection-rumor/
[5] https://www.phonearena.com/news/iphone-17-major-upgrade-scratch-resistant-display_id156445
[6] https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidphelan/2025/03/11/apple-iphone-17-pro-max-design-new-leak-hints-at-major-upgrade/
[7] https://www.reddit.com/r/apple/comments/1biguhd/iphone_17_to_feature_new_scratch_resistant/
[8] https://www.yahoo.com/tech/iphone-17-pro-max-iphone-192508108.html
[9] https://appleinsider.com/articles/24/03/19/iphone-17s-display-will-be-anti-reflective-and-more-scratch-resistant