Within barely four days of the much-awaited September 21 official launch of the iPhone 5, Apple apparently has a problem on its hands already --- in the form of an issue related to marks and scratches on the new handset!

While early buyers of iPhone 5 started complaining almost immediately after opening their brand new handsets that there were some scratches and nicks on the unused case; some early users of the smartphone have reported that the back of the handset can easily pick up marks and scratches even with the most careful of owners.

The cause behind both the problems is the same --- the anodized aluminum surface used on the back of the iPhone 5. The surface is seemingly prone to marks and nicks to such an extent that its perfect condition cannot be retained even in the production line; a fact underscored by reports that 35 percent iPhone 5 buyers have complained about damage to the handset out of the box.

Since it is difficult to keep the anodized aluminum surface free from damage, iPhone 5 users will have to purchase a protective case to ensure that their new smartphone is protected against marks and scratches.

Even though most of the early users will make the essential purchase of the iPhone 5 case, it is almost certain that Apple will be flooded with the complaints pertaining to the issue, particularly by buyers who find their brand new phone coming damaged out of the box!