PSA: Here’s why a cosmic orange iPhone 17 Pro can turn rose gold 

Last week on Reddit, a user posted an image of their Cosmic Orange iPhone 17 Pro that had apparently shifted to a pinkish, rose gold-like color.

Another example posted to TikTok similarly shows an iPhone 17 Pro in cosmic orange turning pink on the camera plateau and around the edges. Even though there are a few examples of this gaining traction on social media, it’s not remotely close to a widespread phenomenon.

Here’s what’s likely causing the discoloration, and what you can do to prevent it from happening to your iPhone 17 Pro.

Based on what can be gleaned from the posts on TikTok and Reddit, it seems like this discoloration is due to interaction with peroxide-based cleaning solvents. The iPhone 17 Pro’s chassis is constructed from anodized aluminum, which relies on an artificial oxide layer for both corrosion resistance and color uniformity.

Hydrogen peroxide is a strong oxidizer and can compromise this oxide layer, particularly with repeated or prolonged exposure. This can result in surface etching, fading, or localized discoloration as the underlying metal begins to react. This explains why the affected areas are concentrated around the aluminum frame and camera plateau, rather than the rear glass panel.

So, unless you want your iPhone 17 Pro to turn into a different color, it’s best to follow Apple’s advice and stay away from cleaners that contain bleach or hydrogen peroxide.

On its support website, Apple specifically warns:

Don’t use products containing bleach or hydrogen peroxide. Avoid getting moisture in any openings, and don’t submerge your iPhone in any cleaning agents. After disinfecting, wipe with a soft, slightly damp (with water), lint-free cloth.

You can read more about Apple’s advice on cleaning your products below:

My go-to recommendation for a cleaning product is the WHOOSH! Screen Shine cleaner and cloth. This cleaner doesn’t contain any harsh chemicals and shouldn’t cause any damage to your Apple products.

If you already have a cleaner you like using, double-check the ingredients. You might be using a clear that contains bleach or hydrogen peroxide and not even realize it.

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