After Cosmic Orange, Apple reportedly testing a deep red finish for iPhone 18 Pro models

Apple may be preparing to add another bold colour to its Pro lineup. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the company is testing a “deep red” finish for the iPhone 18 Pro. If it makes the final cut, it would build on Apple’s recent foray into more expressive colours, following last year’s Cosmic Orange iPhone 17 Pro.

For years, Apple kept its Pro models in safe territory, sticking to finishes like graphite, silver, gold, and deep blue. Brighter shades were largely reserved for the standard iPhone lineup, while Product(RED) editions never extended to Pro devices and were discontinued after the iPhone 14 in 2022. The Cosmic Orange finish on the iPhone 17 Pro marked a rare shift, and its popularity across the globe may be encouraging Apple to explore similar options. Gurman suggests that other rumoured colours, including purple and brown, could simply be variations of the same red concept rather than entirely different finishes.

In contrast, Apple appears to be taking a more cautious approach with its rumoured foldable iPhone. The first-generation iPhone Fold is expected to launch in subdued shades such as dark gray, black, or light silver. That restraint would mirror Apple’s approach with the iPhone X, which debuted in just two colours. Limiting finishes can help simplify manufacturing, particularly for a new form factor where production complexity is already high.

Across the smartphone market, colour has become an important way for brands to stand out. Samsung, Xiaomi, and other Android makers regularly introduce bold finishes and region-exclusive variants to attract younger buyers and drive early demand. Apple has typically prioritised materials and finish quality over vibrant colours on its Pro models, but recent moves suggest it is testing how far it can push personalisation without losing the premium feel.

A deep red iPhone 18 Pro would yet again offer buyers a standout colour option without giving up Pro features. Those who prefer a more understated look may find the foldable’s neutral palette more appealing, while users drawn to expressive finishes may continue to look at Android flagships if Apple keeps its colour range limited.

The iPhone 18 Pro is still months away from the usual launch timeline of September, and Apple’s plans could change. But if deep red does arrive, it would signal a shift in how Apple approaches colour on its most premium devices.