iPhone 18 Pro May Inherit iPhone 17 Pro Color Fading Issues
The iPhone 18 Pro may retain the aluminum chassis used in the iPhone 17 Pro, according to a translated report. This design choice potentially carries over documented issues with color fading—specifically seen in “Cosmic Orange” models—and increased susceptibility to dents and scratches compared to previous titanium models.
Why are there concerns about iPhone 18 Pro color fading?
Reports from Reddit users indicate that iPhone 17 Pro models have experienced significant color degradation shortly after purchase. The issue is most prominent on Cosmic Orange devices, which some owners say have shifted toward a pink shade.
Other users shared photos of phones where the color didn’t just shift, but faded entirely. These reports describe a finish that looks aged or worn, stripping the device of its premium flagship appearance.
How does the aluminum chassis affect durability?
The transition from titanium to aluminum in the iPhone 17 Pro led to increased fragility. According to user reports on Reddit, the softer aluminum body is more prone to denting and scratching from minor drops that titanium models previously withstood.

Because the translated report suggests the iPhone 18 Pro will use the same chassis architecture, these durability gaps are expected to persist. Users may face a trade-off between better cooling and a frame that shows wear and tear more quickly.
Will the “Dark Cherry” iPhone 18 Pro fade?
Leaker Sonny Dickson has identified “Dark Cherry” as the signature color for the iPhone 18 Pro, replacing the Cosmic Orange of the previous generation. If Apple hasn’t altered the anodization process or the chassis material, this new hue faces the same risks as its predecessor.

The primary concern is whether the Dark Cherry finish will maintain its depth or shift into a different shade over time. While Apple often adjusts rear glass panels to reduce contrast in new iterations, the chassis material remains the critical failure point for color longevity.
Comparison: Aluminum vs. Titanium Chassis
| Feature | Titanium (Older Pro) | Aluminum (17 Pro / 18 Pro) |
|---|---|---|
| Thermal Cooling | Moderate | Excellent |
| Scratch Resistance | High | Lower |
| Color Stability | Stable | Reported Fading/Shifting |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which iPhone 17 Pro color is most affected by fading?
Cosmic Orange is the most reported color for fading, with many users noting a shift toward pink.
Is the iPhone 18 Pro more fragile than the iPhone 15 Pro?
If the reports regarding the aluminum chassis are accurate, the 18 Pro will be softer and more prone to dents than the titanium-framed 15 Pro.
What is the new color for the iPhone 18 Pro?
According to leaks from Sonny Dickson, the new signature color is Dark Cherry.
What do you think about the switch to aluminum?
Would you trade durability for better thermal performance? Let us know in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for the latest hardware leaks.