The iPhone 17 Pro has arrived, and there’s plenty to get excited about—if you can get your hands on one. But when you’re spending over $1,000 for Apple’s latest flagship, that little voice in your head will probably ask: should you insure it? An AppleCare plan can save you from expensive repairs due to drops or spills, but as many new iPhone 17 Pro users are learning, it won’t cover surface scratches.
Apple’s hardware and accidental damage documents make this clear: cosmetic damage isn’t included in any AppleCare plan. The company only repairs or replaces a device if the damage impacts performance. Scratches became a topic of debate shortly after launch, when a demo iPhone 17 Pro on display reportedly showed visible marks within hours of use.
Apple later explained to 9to5Mac that the marks weren’t true scratches—they came from a worn MagSafe stand used at the event. According to the company, the blemishes were actually removable residue left by the MagSafe connection.
Protecting your new iPhone
For anyone obsessed with keeping their device immaculate, the lack of scratch protection can be frustrating. AppleCare coverage with theft and loss protection costs $13.99 per month (or $139.99 annually). The AppleCare One plan is pricier at $19.99 per month but lets you cover up to three Apple devices—ideal for users deep in the Apple ecosystem.
Even without scratch coverage, AppleCare can still save money on major repairs. For instance, fixing a cracked iPhone 17 Pro screen costs just $29 with AppleCare, compared to a hefty $329 without it. AppleCare users also get a temporary replacement device while waiting for repairs, a convenience that often drives even non-subscribers to use Apple’s trusted repair network.
Whether you opt for insurance or not, the easiest way to keep your iPhone 17 Pro looking flawless is with a protective case. Apple sells several options, including the $59 TechWoven fabric case that pairs elegantly with the new blue or orange finishes. Beats also launched a $79 protective case sold through Apple, with camera control functionality built right in—though its color range is limited. Third-party cases can be cheaper, but as always, quality varies widely.
