Some iPhone 17 Pro users are reporting that their Cosmic Orange models are changing colour, turning from bright orange to a pinkish shade, a problem now being called “Colorgate” on Reddit.
Several posts on social media show users sharing pictures of their phones with a visible pink tint developing over time. While the number of affected devices is still small, the issue has gained attention among iPhone fans, leading to debates about whether it’s a hardware defect or a chemical reaction.
Apple has not yet released any official statement on the matter. However, early analysis suggests that the change in colour may be linked to cleaning habits and the material used on the iPhone 17 Pro’s titanium body rather than a design flaw.
The iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max feature a titanium frame with an anodized finish, a process that gives the surface strength and colour. Unlike aluminium, titanium reacts differently with dyes during the colouring process, which can make some shades, such as Cosmic Orange and Deep Blue, more sensitive to external factors.
Experts say certain cleaning chemicals could damage the phone’s anodized coating. Hydrogen peroxide, a common ingredient in many disinfectants, can fade or alter colours when used repeatedly on anodized surfaces.
Interestingly, Apple’s official cleaning guide warns users not to use products containing bleach or hydrogen peroxide. Instead, it recommends cleaning with wipes that have up to 70% isopropyl alcohol or 75% ethyl alcohol.
While Apple hasn’t confirmed whether cleaning agents are to blame, science suggests that hydrogen peroxide can break down the dye molecules used in anodized coatings, which may explain why some orange iPhones are turning pink.
This isn’t the first time Apple has faced user complaints over design or durability issues. In the past, there have been similar discussions, such as “scratchgate” and “batterygate.” For now, no widespread pattern of colour fading has been confirmed, and reports seem limited to Cosmic Orange models.
Some users also believe that prolonged exposure to sunlight or heat might be contributing to the issue, though there’s no clear evidence yet.
Experts recommend following Apple’s cleaning instructions and avoiding any peroxide-based disinfectants. As discussions continue online, users are waiting to see if Apple will comment or provide an official explanation for the mysterious colour change affecting the iPhone 17 Pro.
