iPhone 18 Pro Leak Shows Dark Cherry SIM Tray as Rumors Point to 4 Colors

Q: Will Apple's new 'dark cherry' iPhone finish suffer the same fading issues as previous models?

It is possible, but not proven. Based on current leaks, Apple’s rumored “dark cherry” iPhone 18 Pro finish could face some of the same discoloration or chipping complaints seen on earlier bold finishes, yet there is no confirmed evidence that it will. The concern comes from reports around the iPhone 17 Pro’s Cosmic Orange model, where some users said the anodized aluminum frame shifted toward pink or rose gold while the glass back stayed closer to its original color. Separate leaks have also warned that the iPhone 18 Pro may keep a similar aluminum design approach, raising the risk that dark cherry, light blue, and dark gray could show wear or paint issues more easily. At the same time, other reporting suggests Apple may have adjusted its aluminum finishing process to reduce oxidation and discoloration. That could matter because a deep, saturated color like dark cherry would make any fading, scratches, or tone changes more visible than on silver or lighter finishes. For now, the evidence is mixed. Apple has not confirmed the color, the manufacturing method, or any durability improvements. The practical answer is that buyers should treat fading as a plausible risk rather than an established defect. The clearest test will come after launch, when reviewers and early owners can check whether the frame and camera area change color over time. Anyone concerned about finish durability may want to wait a few weeks after release before buying.

1 articles · Updated · MacRumors · Jun 30

A Weibo image shared by leaker Ice Universe shows an alleged iPhone 18 Pro SIM tray in a dark cherry finish, offering a fresh look at Apple’s rumored 2026 signature color.
The deep reddish shade has surfaced in multiple reports, and Apple is also said to be preparing Light Blue, Dark Gray and Silver options for the iPhone 18 Pro line.
Ice Universe also said there will be no black iPhone 18 Pro model, reinforcing earlier rumors that Apple is dropping that standard finish this year.
Those 4 colors were previously seen in leaked dummy units, and Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 18 Pro lineup in September alongside its first foldable iPhone.