iPhone 17 Pro has another problem: the housing changes color

The housing of the iPhone 17 Pro (Max) not only appears to be sensitive to scratches, its color can apparently also change.

iPhone 17 Pro (Max) changes color

The problem of scratches on the iPhone 17 Pro (Max) that we wrote about earlier has now been resolved. But the next problem with the new Pro devices has already presented itself: the housing of the iPhone 17 Pro (Max) changes color.

Last week a user posted on Reddit a photo of his iPhone 17 Pro in Cosmic Orange, which had apparently changed to a pinkish, red-gold color. On TikTok another example of an iPhone 17 Pro appeared in Cosmic Orange that is discolored on the camera island and around the edges. Nevertheless, it is not yet a widespread phenomenon.

This is why

What we can deduce from the posts on TikTok and Reddit is that this discoloration is likely the result of interaction with hydrogen peroxide-based cleaners. The iPhone 17 Pro’s body is made of anodized aluminum, with an artificial oxide layer that ensures both corrosion resistance and color uniformity.

Hydrogen peroxide is a strong oxidizing agent and can damage this oxide layer, especially with repeated or prolonged exposure. This can lead to etching of the surface, as well as fading or local discoloration when the underlying metal begins to react. This also explains why the affected areas are around the aluminum frame and camera and not on the rear glass part.

So if you don’t want your iPhone 17 Pro to change color, it’s best to follow Apple’s advice and avoid cleaning products containing bleach or hydrogen peroxide. Apple says about it:

“Do not use products that contain bleach or hydrogen peroxide. Do not allow moisture to enter any openings or immerse your iPhone in cleaning solutions. After disinfecting, wipe iPhone with a soft, lint-free cloth slightly dampened with water.”

If you already have a cleaning product that you like to use, take a closer look at the ingredients. You may be using a cleaning product that contains bleach or hydrogen peroxide without even realizing it.