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The jet-black iPhone 7 gets a scratch test

What does it take to visibly scuff the iPhone's new shiny finish?

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Sharon Profis Vice President of Content
Sharon Profis is a vice president of content.
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Vanessa Hand Orellana CNET Senior Editor
As head of wearables at CNET, Vanessa reviews and writes about the latest smartwatches and fitness trackers. She joined the team seven years ago as an on-camera reporter for CNET's Spanish-language site and then moved on to the English side to host and produce some of CNET's videos and YouTube series. When she's not testing out smartwatches or dropping phones, you can catch her on a hike or trail run with her family.
Sharon Profis
Vanessa Hand Orellana
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Watch this: Jet Black iPhone 7 scratch test

The shiny finish of the jet-black iPhone 7 comes with a catch: It's scratch-prone.

Apple was forthright with this caveat, detailing the potential drawbacks of buying the new model:

"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."

But if you're buying a jet-black iPhone 7, you probably don't want to cover it with a case. So can it handle a few dings, or are you better off taking Apple's advice? Watch our scratch test to find out.