This isn’t quite the ideal look.
Even though it carries a price tag of over $1,000, the brand-new iPhone 18 Pro is leaving some customers feeling regretful about their purchases, as there are reports of these so-called cutting-edge phones starting to show fading.
Apple enthusiasts have taken to social media to express their frustrations, particularly with the $1,199 phone, which was released on September 18, showing signs of discoloration around the three rear camera lenses.
This issue seems more noticeable in the Burgundy and Black models.
“Hey all, I noticed that the area surrounding my camera lenses appears slightly lighter, maybe even pinkish, compared to the rest of the camera housing,” one user pointed out. “I’ve made sure there’s no oil, dirt, or residue on the phone, and I’ve cleaned it carefully. No scratches, dents, or any kind of physical damage either.”
A photo shared with the comment showed the Burgundy phone’s triple lenses surrounded by faint pink rings.
“I’m experiencing the same issue with my Burgundy Pro Max,” another user added. “Everyone suggesting a simple wipe is wrong; it doesn’t come off. It’s definitely a discoloration.”
Some users reported their iPhones seemed to arrive in a two-toned state, dismissing the notion that it was due to regular wear or poor cleaning. “My black iPhone 18 Pro Max arrived just like this,” one disappointed buyer mentioned.
“Mine looks identical,” grumbled another. “It was like that right out of the box. I thought I could clean it when I got home, but those stains just won’t budge.”
Several customers stated they’d already initiated returns for refunds.
“Mine is terrible. It’s already headed back to Apple,” one unsatisfied tech enthusiast commented.
Interestingly, those who purchased the silver or light blue “glacier” models did not report any issues with discoloration.
This discoloration problem has happened before with iPhones.
In fact, Apple users complained that the Cosmic Orange variant of the iPhone 17 Pro changed to pink just weeks after its launch.
What’s the cause?
According to AppleInsider, this issue stems from the colorization process.
Both the 17s and the iPhone 18 Pros use anodization, which involves immersing the devices in an electrolytic bath to create a porous aluminum oxide layer. This process is designed to infuse the structure with pigment, ideally creating a coating that doesn’t easily fade.
However, if the protective seal isn’t applied correctly, Apple devices may become more vulnerable to contaminants like water or skin oils, which can alter the color.
Some insiders have suggested that Apple hasn’t addressed this problem adequately, raising concerns that future models, such as the iPhone 18, could also be susceptible.
