The iPhone 17 features a significant durability upgrade with its new Ceramic Shield 2 technology, which protects both the front and back of the device. Apple claims this new ceramic shield provides 3 times better scratch resistance on the front display compared to previous iPhones. Additionally, the back glass, now also covered with Ceramic Shield 2 for the first time, has 4 times better resistance to cracks than earlier models. This extended use of Ceramic Shield 2 enhances durability by making the iPhone 17 more resistant to both scratches and drops, positioning it as Apple's most resilient iPhone to date.
This Ceramic Shield 2 is described as a tougher-than-any-smartphone glass or glass-ceramic material with a unique Apple-designed coating that not only improves scratch and crack resistance but also reduces glare through improved anti-reflective properties. The screen's scratch resistance improvement is especially notable because it means the display will maintain clarity and integrity longer under regular use conditions like being carried in pockets with keys or other abrasive materials.
Before the iPhone 17, Ceramic Shield was typically limited to the front display, but Apple has extended it to cover the back glass, which historically has been a more fragile element in smartphone design. This extension promises greater protection against back glass shattering upon drops, a common vulnerability in premium smartphones. Combined with the phone's forged aluminum alloy body, this innovation aims to deliver a significantly tougher build than the previous titanium models.
Apple also emphasizes that the iPhone 17 maintains an IP68 water resistance rating, allowing it to survive submersion up to 6 meters for 30 minutes, which complements the Ceramic Shield's physical toughness by protecting against liquid damage as well.
Despite earlier challenges, Apple's Ceramic Shield 2 now includes an anti-reflective coating that enhances outdoor visibility by reducing glare and improving contrast, with the iPhone 17 Pro model's display reaching an industry-leading peak brightness of 3,000 nits. This coating also contributes indirectly to screen durability by adding a layer that helps prevent micro-scratches and wear.
The iPhone 17's Ceramic Shield 2 durability claims are backed by practical improvements in scratch resistance seen in previous versions. Reviews of the iPhone 16 Pro's updated Ceramic Shield glass described it as nearly unscathed after extended use (like seven months) compared to older models with the original Ceramic Shield that showed visible scratches. The new iteration promises to build on this enhanced longevity and toughness to withstand daily wear and tear more effectively.
In summary, the Ceramic Shield 2 on iPhone 17 is a leap forward in smartphone durability technology by:
- Providing 3 times better scratch resistance on the front display compared to previous versions.
- Offering 4 times better crack resistance on the back glass, a first for Ceramic Shield coverage on iPhones.
- Incorporating a new anti-reflective coating that improves outdoor screen visibility and resistance to microabrasions.
- Being paired with a robust aluminum body frame that further improves physical durability.
- Maintaining high water and dust resistance with an IP68 rating.