Apple is probably the least company to be pointed fingers at when neglecting the strict quality control of its products, but with the iPhone 17 Pro Max, it appears that the technology giant has let its focus slip, all while charging a premium for its top-end flagship. The latest incident involves an owner posting pictures of his shiny new purchase, only to find that the back glass is slightly misaligned. While it would require an eagle eye to spot this design blemish, we can sympathize with the owner because these devices start from an expensive $1,199.

Owner has been advised to exchange the ‘defective’ iPhone 17 Pro Max, but it risks invalidating his trade-in, forcing him to pay an additional sum

First, it was oxidation problems that caused the iPhone 17 Pro Max’s paint job turn from Cosmic Orange to Rose Gold, followed by the paint practically peeling off due to the alleged use of wet wipes. Now, a Reddit user with the handle ‘Stark956’ has shown evidence of poor quality control. The iPhone 17 Pro Max in question was purchased from AT&T, and on the top left corner, you can clearly see that the rear glass is misaligned.

Had the device been a non-flagship unit that was stamped with a lower price tag, the owner might have let this issue slide, though other Redditors in the thread have stated that there are more important problems to be concerned with. Others have advised him to strap on a case so he doesn’t have to notice the rear glass daily, while a few have suggested that he initiate an exchange with AT&T.

The problem with exchanging the device is that the iPhone 17 Pro Max owner risks invalidating his trade-in while also being forced to pay a $55 restocking fee. Apparently, this quality control problem has been prevalent since the iPhone 13, with Reddit user ‘Terminatz’ saying that his iPhone 13 also had some rear glass misalignment along the Apple logo.

Whether or not a class-action lawsuit is filed against Apple is another debate, but it is worth noting that the company is exploring a brand new design for the iPhone 18, one that features a slightly transparent glass back. It is possible that this aesthetic change for next year is being explored to alleviate the imperfections we’re looking at right now. Apple could also up its quality control in the next 12 months, so let us keep our fingers crossed for more updates.

News Source: Reddit

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