Apple’s latest flagship, the iPhone 17 Pro series, is under scrutiny after multiple users reported decolourization and fading issues affecting the aluminium body of certain models.
The problem, first spotted on Reddit, appears to impact the Cosmic Orange and Deep Blue variants.
Reports of fading emerge online
It all began with a few Reddit posts from early adopters who noticed strange discolouration on their Cosmic Orange iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max units. Initially dismissed as isolated cases, more users have since reported similar fading patterns, suggesting the issue may be more widespread.
According to user photos and discussions, the decolourization typically begins around the camera island before gradually spreading across the entire aluminium frame — leaving only the matte glass back panel unaffected.
More colours affected: Deep blue units also discolouring
While the earliest reports focused on the Cosmic Orange model, users of the Deep Blue iPhone 17 Pro have now reported the same problem. In both cases, the fading seems to dull the phone’s metallic vibrancy, resulting in an uneven, washed-out appearance.
Several Redditors joked that their once-bright Cosmic Orange phones had turned into an unintentional Rose Gold variant after spending time in the sun.
Possible cause: UV exposure under suspicion
Community speculation points to UV light exposure as the likely culprit. Many users claim that their iPhones began to fade after only a short period outdoors, suggesting that the aluminium coating may not be adequately UV-resistant.
While Apple has not yet issued an official statement, reports indicate that the fading occurs faster when devices are used or left in direct sunlight, particularly in warmer climates.
Apple expected to replace affected units
The full extent of the issue remains unclear, and there is no confirmation from Apple on how many devices are affected. However, industry observers expect the company to replace discoloured units under warranty, as it has done with previous hardware finish issues.
Review units examined by some tech outlets have not yet shown any visible fading, though testing under prolonged outdoor exposure is still ongoing.
Curious silver lining for some users
In a humorous twist, a few owners have said they don’t mind the fading, claiming the sun-exposed Cosmic Orange devices now resemble the classic Rose Gold finish that Apple discontinued years ago. “If you miss Rose Gold,” one Reddit post read, “just leave your Cosmic Orange iPhone out in the sun.”
Still, for those who prefer their expensive flagship phones to retain their original colour, the issue raises questions about Apple’s new anodization process and durability of the 17 Pro’s aluminium coating.
