Apple Tests Deep Red for iPhone 18 Pro and Utilitarian Shades for iPhone Fold

Apple Tests Deep Red for iPhone 18 Pro and Utilitarian Shades for iPhone Fold

Apple is reportedly exploring a deep red finish for the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, while the foldable iPhone Fold is said to adopt more utilitarian shades. The information comes from veteran tech journalist Mark Gurman in his Power On newsletter, which notes potential colour directions for this year’s lineup.

iPhone 18 Pro colour options under consideration

According to Gurman, Apple is testing a deep red option for the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. Considered one of the top contenders to be the flagship pro model this year, thecolour with a matte finish allows both to look very nice, but still have a top quality product.

According to Gurman, while the 2023 iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max have received a lot of interest due to their all-new models, improved internals and also because of the ‘Cosmic Orange’ finish first seen on the 2026 editions. The orange hue has reportedly driven demand in key markets such as China, where some consumers have compared it to luxury branding in colour.

Apple is speculated to be building on that momentum by exploring a deep red option for the iPhone 18 Pro lineup. There have also been rumours of purple and brown finishes, but Gurman suggests these may simply be variations of the same red concept rather than distinct colourways.

It remains unclear whether Apple will retain the Cosmic Orange colourway from last year, but the journalist noted that holding both could be challenging given their proximity on the colour spectrum.

The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max might have a deep red option for consumers. Other options under consideration are purple and brown, both of which tie back to the red concept.

There is a possibility that cosmic orange will still be sold in certain regions, but there is also uncertainty as to whether or not it can be made available in conjunction with a deep red device.

The conversation surrounding colour options is indicative of the overall trend within smartphones. As smartphone manufacturers are utilising various finishes and colours to help differentiate themselves from other manufacturers in a saturated marketplace. Gurman’s notes suggest Apple is testing how far it can push personalisation for the Pro line while preserving premium materials and finish quality.

A deep red iPhone 18 Pro would offer buyers a bold option that aligns with a shift toward more expressive finishes, while still delivering the expected Pro features. For customers seeking a more understated appearance, the colour strategy for the foldable device appears to be taking a different approach.

iPhone Fold colour strategy and launch timeline

Separately, Gurman reports that the foldable iPhone Fold is being considered with more utilitarian colours, rather than experimental hues. Industry observers have been watching whether Apple will apply a restrained palette such as dark grey, black, silver, or white to the first generation fold, a strategy that could simplify manufacturing during a new form factor's early life.

Previous reporting has suggested the iPhone 18 series may mark a shift in Apple’s product lineup. The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are expected to launch in September alongside the rumoured iPhone Fold, while the vanilla iPhone 18 is expected to debut in 2027. The balance between a premium Pro look and practical finishes for a foldable device remains a point of interest for analysts and fans alike.

Apple’s approach to colour in this cycle appears to contrast with how some Android rivals frequently push bold, region-specific variants. In the past, Apple focused on material and finish quality rather than colour in its Pro model range however, recent news shows they’re trying different ways to create personalisation while still maintaining the premium look and feel of the Pro range.

To see how this could affect the ecosystem of devices; the iPhone 18 Pro in deep red would fit alongside the other colours.that may be offered later in the year. The foldable device’s more restrained palette could appeal to buyers seeking a neutral, classic aesthetic, while some consumers who prefer brighter finishes may compare offerings across brands in a competitive market.

The iPhone 18 Pro is still months away from the usual September launch window, and Apple’s plans could change. If a deep red arrives as a primary Pro colour, it would signal a notable shift in how Apple approaches colour strategy for its most premium devices. The broader implication could be a new direction in which Apple balances distinctive personalisation with the brand’s long standing emphasis on design integrity.