As you know, Apple’s latest controversy (after Antennagate, Bendgate, Batterygate and Scratchgate) is Colorgate, where the Cosmic Orange iPhone 17 Pro is inexplicably mutating to pink. The “new” hue
It looks like this – I’d dare to say the new color is funky as it gets – but I’d be pissed off if that was my iPhone 17 Pro that was suddenly changing hues:
Images source – Reddit
As seen from the images, units of the Cosmic Orange model are inexplicably mutating to a reddish gold (or deep pink) hue. Industry experts warn that these cosmetic defects, especially the orange-to-pink color mutation, severely impact the phone’s cosmetic grading and could significantly devalue the iPhone 17 Pro when users try to trade it in later.Could it be that users are cleaning it the wrong way?
Image by PhoneArena
There are too few “mutated” iPhone 17 Pro handsets at the moment, but some reports indicate that this could occur if the device is cleaned with the wrong solution.
The distinct, vivid colors of the iPhone 17 Pro (like Cosmic Orange) are a result of its anodized aluminum construction, a process fundamentally different from the smooth, non-porous finish of the previous titanium models.
Anodizing aluminum creates a porous surface that absorbs the color dye before being sealed. This porous nature, while allowing for richer color options, is also likely the source of the recent Colorgate discoloration issue, where the orange finish mutates to pink.
The evidence points strongly to hydrogen peroxide as the culprit. An expert from 2013 on anodized aluminum noted that this chemical causes significant fading in colored finishes, especially in items like medical devices that undergo sterilization.
While we don’t know Apple’s exact dye formula, the company’s official cleaning guidelines are a critical clue: they explicitly warn users not to use products containing bleach or hydrogen peroxide, despite permitting isopropyl and ethyl alcohol wipes.
Image by Apple
This advice strongly suggests that color preservation is a key concern. Though not all affected users admit to using peroxide-based cleaners (some blame sun exposure), the most probable explanation for the color shift is accidental contact with the wrong cleaning or cosmetic solvents, causing the dye in the phone’s porous frame to break down.
“Iconic Phones” is coming this Fall!Relive the most iconic and unforgettable phones from the past 20 years! Iconic Phones is a stunningly illustrated book we’ve been crafting for over a year—and it’s set to launch in just a couple of months!
Iconic Phones: Revolution at Your Fingertips is the ultimate coffee table book for any phone enthusiast. Featuring the stories of more than 20 beloved devices, it takes you on a nostalgic journey through the mobile revolution that transformed our world. Don’t miss out—sign up today to lock in your early-bird discount!
Buy 3 Months, Get 3 Free
Visible+ Pro – up to $135 savings on Verizon’s fastest 5G
We may earn a commission if you make a purchase
Check Out The Offer
Read the latest from Sebastian Pier