iPhone 17 Pro Users Report Colour Fading: Cosmic Orange Turning Pink Within Days
iPhone 17 Pro Users Report Colour Fading: Cosmic Orange Turning Pink Within Days
The iPhone 17 Pro was one of Apple’s most anticipated flagships this year — sleek, powerful, and vibrant. Among its standout design choices was the bold new Cosmic Orange finish, a colour that perfectly symbolized Apple’s shift toward expressive and premium aesthetics. But, just weeks after launch, early adopters are sounding the alarm over an unexpected issue: the iPhone 17 Pro’s colour is fading and changing shades, with the once-bright orange reportedly turning pink or rose gold in certain lighting conditions.
So, what exactly is happening to Apple’s latest “Pro” smartphone? Why are users complaining about discolouration, and is it a real defect or a normal part of the material’s aging process? Let’s break down everything you need to know.
🔸 The Hype Around the iPhone 17 Pro
Apple introduced the iPhone 17 Pro series with great fanfare. It marked a return to anodized aluminium frames, after the titanium experiment with the iPhone 16 Pro lineup. Apple claimed the new design would bring lighter weight, improved heat dissipation, and a wider range of vibrant finishes.
The Cosmic Orange and Deep Blue variants were particularly eye-catching, designed to appeal to users looking for a more expressive aesthetic. Apple’s marketing images showcased a glowing metallic sheen, hinting at a blend of durability and elegance.
But now, early buyers of these colourful models are facing a rather unpleasant surprise.
⚠️ Reports of Colour Fading and Discolouration
Not long after the first batch of iPhone 17 Pros reached customers’ hands, several users took to Reddit, X (formerly Twitter), and tech forums to share photos of their phones losing colour. The issue was most noticeable in the Cosmic Orange variant, where the bright orange hue seemed to fade into a pale pink or rose-gold tint within days of use.
Some users described it as if the “paint was washing off” or “oxidizing unevenly.” The most common areas affected included the edges of the frame, the camera housing, and the side rails near the volume buttons.
Even demo units displayed in Apple Stores have reportedly begun to show signs of fading or dullness on the aluminium frame.
Here are some real user observations:
“I thought it was just my lighting, but my Cosmic Orange iPhone looks like it’s turning pink — especially around the camera area.”
— Reddit user u/TechAddict17
“It’s disappointing to see a ₹1.5 lakh phone lose its colour so soon. My old iPhone 14 Pro never had this issue.”
— X user @iReviewTech
The problem, while not universal, seems consistent enough that it can’t be ignored.
🔍 What’s Causing the iPhone 17 Pro’s Colour to Fade?
There are several theories circulating online about what’s behind this unexpected colour change. Let’s explore the most plausible ones.
1. The Aluminium Anodization Issue
Apple’s switch from titanium back to anodized aluminium could be the root cause. Anodization is a process that adds a coloured oxide layer to the metal surface. While it gives aluminium a sleek look, it can be more susceptible to fading or wear, especially when exposed to heat, friction, or moisture.
Experts note that even slight inconsistencies in the anodization or sealing process can lead to uneven oxidation, causing certain areas to change colour faster.
2. Surface Coating and Paint Layer
Several teardown analysts have suggested that Apple’s 17 Pro colour finishes — particularly Cosmic Orange — are not dyed into the metal itself, but instead painted over the silver aluminium body. This means any scratches or exposure to UV light could damage the coating and reveal a lighter layer underneath.
In other words, that pink tint users are seeing might actually be the underlying aluminium or oxidized remnants of the coating.
3. UV and Heat Exposure
A growing theory among users points to UV radiation and sunlight exposure. Prolonged time outdoors or under bright artificial lighting may trigger the pigment molecules in the coating to break down or shift hue, similar to what happens with some plastics or fabrics.
4. Manufacturing Inconsistencies
It’s also possible that a few early production batches were affected by uneven finishing or improper sealing, making those particular units more vulnerable. This would explain why not every iPhone 17 Pro owner is reporting the problem.
🧩 Related Issue: Scratches and Scuffs
Alongside the discolouration complaints, another controversy has been brewing — nicknamed “Scratchgate.”
Some users noticed their iPhone 17 Pro developing tiny scratches, chips, or scuffs on the aluminium frame within just a few days of normal use. The darker colours, like Deep Blue, appear especially prone to this.
This could be connected to the same coating issue. When the paint layer is thinner or less durable, it’s more likely to scratch off, exposing the bare silver aluminium beneath and giving the illusion of colour fading.
📣 Apple’s Response So Far
At the time of writing, Apple has not officially commented on the iPhone 17 Pro colour fading problem. The company has, however, addressed the scratch issue, stating that what some people saw on demo units were “material transfer marks” from accessories or display stands — not actual scratches or finish damage.
As for the discolouration? Apple is staying silent — at least for now. Some insiders suggest that the company may be investigating the issue internally before making a public statement. Historically, Apple tends to downplay cosmetic concerns as “normal wear and tear” unless they’re proven to be widespread manufacturing defects.
🧠 Expert Opinions on the Issue
Industry analysts and repair experts have weighed in with interesting insights.
According to teardown specialists from Glitched Online:
“The iPhone 17 Pro’s aluminium finish seems thinner compared to previous models. The Cosmic Orange in particular appears to rely on a paint-like coating, which may be more vulnerable to oxidation and UV fading.”
Materials experts also highlight that bright metallic pigments (like orange or blue) are chemically less stable than muted tones. This means vibrant finishes tend to degrade faster if not protected with a strong sealant or clear coat.
💡 What Should You Do If Your iPhone 17 Pro Is Fading?
If you’re among the early adopters seeing discolouration on your iPhone 17 Pro, here’s what you can do:
✅ 1. Document the Issue Early
Take clear photos or videos showing the affected areas, along with your purchase details and date. This will be useful if you need to raise a warranty claim.
✅ 2. Visit an Apple Service Center
Some users have reported that Apple replaced their units after inspection, categorizing the fading as a “finish defect”. It’s worth checking whether your device qualifies under the cosmetic defect policy.
✅ 3. Use a Protective Case or Skin
Even though it hides the colour, a thin case or transparent skin can reduce direct friction, sunlight exposure, and oxidation — extending the life of your phone’s finish.
✅ 4. Avoid Prolonged Sun Exposure
Try not to leave the phone in direct sunlight or near heat sources for extended periods. UV rays can accelerate fading, especially on bright finishes.
✅ 5. Keep Monitoring for Updates
Apple often addresses such issues through warranty adjustments or quiet manufacturing tweaks in later batches. Keep an eye on Apple’s official support page or credible tech sites.
🔎 How Big of a Problem Is This Really?
While the reports are widespread on social media, it’s worth noting that not every iPhone 17 Pro unit is affected. The issue appears concentrated among certain colour variants — mainly Cosmic Orange and Deep Blue — and may only affect specific production batches.
Still, given Apple’s reputation for premium build quality, even isolated cases of discolouration raise valid concerns. Consumers spending over ₹1.5 lakh (or $1,200+) expect more than just cutting-edge performance — they expect longevity, consistency, and luxury craftsmanship.
📱 Lessons for Buyers and Apple Alike
From a consumer perspective, this incident is a reminder that new designs and materials aren’t always flawless from day one. Early adopters often serve as real-world testers for these innovations. If you prefer a trouble-free experience, waiting a few months post-launch can sometimes help you avoid first-batch imperfections.
For Apple, however, this issue highlights a recurring theme: the balance between aesthetic innovation and practical durability. Bold finishes may look stunning, but maintaining that perfection under daily use is a tougher challenge.
🧾 Final Thoughts
The iPhone 17 Pro colour fading issue may not be catastrophic, but it’s certainly disappointing for users who expected Apple’s usual flawless craftsmanship. Whether it’s due to thin coatings, UV exposure, or manufacturing inconsistencies, the fact remains — premium devices should age gracefully, not lose their colour within weeks.
Until Apple officially addresses the problem, it’s best for current owners to take preventive care and for potential buyers to be aware of what’s happening. And who knows — maybe the Cosmic Orange turned Rose Gold will become an accidental collector’s item someday.
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