Key Points
-
iPhone 17 Pro users are reporting that their new Cosmic Orange phones are changing color over time.
-
Cosmic Orange units appear to be reacting to certain chemicals found in cleaning or cosmetic products.
-
iPhone 17 Pro owners are advised to follow Apple’s official cleaning guidelines to prevent discolouration.
iPhone 17 Pro users report their Cosmic Orange phones turning pink
iPhone 17 Pro users across social media platforms are noticing an unexpected problem — their phones in the new Cosmic Orange finish are slowly turning pink. The issue, which first appeared on Reddit and X (formerly Twitter), shows photos of iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max units with visible fading or pink patches on the frame. Apple introduced Cosmic Orange as the “hero colour” of its latest Pro lineup, describing it as bold, elegant, and distinct.
However, several users claim that the once-vibrant orange shade is losing its intensity after a few weeks of use. Reports suggest the color shift is most noticeable on the frame edges, where users typically hold their phones. Apple has not confirmed any defect so far, but discussions among experts point to the anodised aluminium frame — the same feature that gives the iPhone its glossy yet durable finish — as the root cause. While anodisation helps prevent corrosion, it can also make the metal more porous, allowing certain chemicals to interact with the dye beneath the surface.
Cosmic Orange finish may be reacting to common cleaning products
Cosmic Orange was designed to stand out from the traditional iPhone colors, using a complex anodising process that bonds dye molecules deeply into the aluminium surface. This gives the phone its rich hue, but it also introduces a weakness: sensitivity to certain chemicals. According to reports referenced by Tom’s Guide and TechRadar, anodised aluminium can fade or change color when it comes in contact with hydrogen peroxide — a common ingredient in many cleaning sprays, hand sanitisers, and cosmetic wipes.
In fact, an older industry blog by Mark Jazefowicz, VP of Technical Services at PF Finishing, explains that hydrogen peroxide can break down the sealed dye layer in anodised metal. This reaction doesn’t happen instantly but builds up with repeated exposure, leading to a pale pink tint or uneven fading. This theory matches what users are observing — the orange gradually shifting to pink in high-contact areas like corners and buttons. The phenomenon may not be limited to cosmetic wipes; even some hand creams or surface cleaners could trigger the same effect if traces are left on the skin or cleaning cloth.
Apple has not commented publicly on the issue yet, but the problem seems consistent enough to raise awareness among new buyers. It’s not a hardware failure or software bug — just an unfortunate reaction between the anodised finish and external substances that many people use daily.
iPhone 17 Pro users advised to follow Apple’s official cleaning instructions
iPhone 17 Pro owners can avoid this issue by following Apple’s cleaning recommendations closely. On its official support page, Apple clearly warns users not to use products containing bleach or hydrogen peroxide. The company suggests wiping the device gently with a 70% isopropyl alcohol or 75% ethyl alcohol wipe — both of which are safe for anodised aluminium and glass surfaces. It also cautions users to keep moisture out of any phone openings and never submerge the device in cleaning liquids.
These guidelines might sound simple, but they make a big difference in protecting the finish of your iPhone. Over time, even small traces of harsh chemicals can wear down the anodised coating, allowing color changes to appear. Experts recommend using a soft microfiber cloth slightly dampened with water or alcohol-based wipes rather than generic “antibacterial” or “makeup removal” wipes, which often contain hydrogen peroxide or acidic compounds.
While Apple has not issued an official recall or replacement policy for affected Cosmic Orange units, users who experience discoloration can reach out to Apple Support or visit an authorised service center. However, since the issue appears cosmetic rather than functional, it may not be covered under standard warranty.
Cosmic Orange: Apple’s bold design experiment that may need a rethink
Cosmic Orange was meant to symbolize warmth and energy in the iPhone 17 Pro lineup, setting it apart from the classic black, silver, and blue shades. Apple heavily promoted the color in its advertising campaigns, calling it a perfect mix of creativity and power. But this unplanned color shift might make customers hesitant to choose bright finishes in the future. It’s a reminder that while aesthetics play a big role in design, durability and real-world use are just as important.
Experts say this isn’t the first time Apple has faced such a challenge. Previous models with matte or anodised finishes have shown similar wear patterns, especially when exposed to rough handling or chemical contact. Still, the iPhone 17 Pro’s premium pricing and Apple’s emphasis on craftsmanship make the issue more noticeable this time. The company will likely review the anodising process or apply stronger sealants in future models to prevent such reactions.
For now, users can take preventive steps — using protective cases, cleaning with approved wipes, and avoiding exposure to cosmetic or cleaning agents that might cause fading. Until Apple makes a statement, the best way to preserve your phone’s vibrant orange is to treat it gently and follow the manufacturer’s cleaning advice carefully.
The Bottom Line
The reports of iPhone 17 Pro units in Cosmic Orange turning pink highlight an unexpected side effect of modern design. While the color may look stunning out of the box, real-world use shows how even premium finishes have limits when exposed to everyday chemicals. It’s not a major defect, but a maintenance issue that users should be aware of — especially if they want their device to retain its original brilliance.
The iPhone 17 Pro remains a powerful device with cutting-edge hardware, but this small controversy serves as a reminder: sometimes, beauty needs care. The best approach is to use approved products, follow Apple’s instructions, and handle your device like the premium piece of technology it is.
