Apple’s new Jet Black finish for the iPhone 7 looks breathtaking, but here comes the bad news: it could scratch all too easily though not on the #Scuffgate level. According to Apple itself, the highly glossy back of your iPhone 7 or iPhone 7 Plus may show “fine micro-abrasions” with use.
In fact, the company is recommending that would-be shoppers buy a case to help keep their handset in pristine condition.
According to a notice on the iPhone 7 Tech Specs page (emphasis mine):
The high-gloss finish of the jet black iPhone 7 is achieved through a precision nine-step anodization and polishing process. Its surface is equally as hard as other anodized Apple products; however, its high shine may show fine micro-abrasions with use. If you are concerned about this, we suggest you use one of the many cases available to protect your iPhone.
The same advisory appears as fine print at the bottom of the Buy iPhone 7 page.
To be honest with you, I’m torn on this issue. On one hand, I’m a huge sucker for that glossy black look—I think it looks fantastic—but I’d be very saddened to see it lose some of its sheen to cosmetic damage.
I certainly don’t anticipate iPhone 5-like scuffs, mind you.
That said, and given that I’m planning on picking up a 256GB iPhone 7 Plus in Jet Black, I think there’s no point hiding that gorgeous industrial design inside a bulky case. Exquisitely designed devices like the iPhone 7 want to be touched and felt, not hidden in some case, no matter how attractively designed it may be.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sbios0u2Px8
Speaking of design, Apple has said that the new Jet Black color option will be exclusively available in 128GB and 256GB iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus models. The “regular” Black (matte) finish will be available across all storage options.
That’s another thing to factor in, especially if you’re considering picking up an entry-level 32GB iPhone 7 in Jet Black—you’ll either need to spend $100 more to get a 128GB model in Jet Black or, if your budget doesn’t allow for that, opt for a regular matte Black model which is available in the 16GB version.
Are you going to buy a Jet Black iPhone 7 and risk the scuffs?
Will you protect it with a case?