Apple’s iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are facing early reports of color discoloration, with some owners sharing photos that appear to show pale or pinkish patches around the rear camera area. The complaints mainly involve the new Burgundy finish, although some Black models have reportedly shown similar changes.
The reports have surfaced only weeks after the phones went on sale and are now drawing comparisons with last year’s iPhone 17 Pro color issue. Apple has not confirmed a widespread defect or identified a cause for the reported color changes.
Photos shared by users on Reddit and other online platforms show lighter areas around the camera lenses and surrounding aluminum chassis. Some owners say the color difference was visible after using the phone, while others claim they noticed it when they first opened their devices.
The complaints have largely focused on Burgundy and Black versions. No reliable data currently shows how many devices may be affected, so it is too early to determine whether this represents a widespread manufacturing problem.
No confirmed explanation for the discoloration exists. Some users have suggested that exposure to ultraviolet light could affect the colored aluminum finish, particularly since the reported changes often appear around the camera area.
Others have pointed to fingerprints, oils, or surface residue. Some users said cleaning reduced or removed the visible marks, while others reported that the discoloration remained even after cleaning. These conflicting reports make it difficult to identify a single cause at this stage.
The iPhone 18 Pro uses an aluminum unibody design with colored finishes, making the surface treatment an important factor in how the phone's appearance holds up over time.
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The latest reports are particularly notable since some iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max owners faced similar complaints last year. Some Cosmic Orange units were reported to develop pink or rose-gold tones, with possible explanations including exposure and changes to the colored aluminum finish.
For now, iPhone 18 Pro owners with unusual color changes are advised to document the issue and contact Apple Support or an authorized service provider for an inspection. Users should avoid abrasive cleaners or attempts to polish the finish themselves. Apple has not announced any replacement program or officially acknowledged a widespread iPhone 18 Pro discoloration defect.