Apple’s complete — and surprisingly broad — iPhone 17 color palette of got confirmation through internal Apple documents, according to a new report. Expanding on recent leaks, the new information reveals the most diverse selection in years across all four models expected to launch in September.
The confirmation comes as Apple prepares to refresh its entire smartphone lineup with new features including the A19 chip, 12GB of RAM for Pro models, and the introduction of the ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air to replace the iPhone 16 Plus.
New report confirms all iPhone Series 17 color options
MacWorld said it obtained exclusive access to internal Apple documentation, including specific Pantone color references used for designing and manufacturing the new iPhone lineup. These documents corroborate recent leaks about iPhone 17 and Air colors as well as the Pro models hues, and provide the clearest picture yet of what color options will be available when the iPhone 17 series launches. The expanded color options across all models suggest Apple is taking a more vibrant approach to its 2025 iPhone lineup, offering something for every user preference while maintaining the sophisticated aesthetic that defines each model tier.
iPhone 17 base model expands to 6 colors
The standard iPhone 17 will offer the most color options of any base model in recent years, with six distinct choices:
- Black (same as iPhone 16)
- White (same as iPhone 16)
- Steel Gray (Pantone 18-4005-TPG)
- Green (Pantone 2282 U)
- Purple (Pantone 530 U)
- Light Blue (Pantone 658 U)
This represents a significant expansion from previous generations, with Apple adding three new colors while maintaining familiar black and white options. The steel gray provides a sophisticated neutral option, while the green and purple choices mark a return to more traditional iPhone colors after Apple experimented with pink and teal in recent years.
iPhone 17 Air takes premium approach with 4 refined colors
The iPhone 17 Air, positioned as Apple’s ultra-thin premium alternative, will feature a more curated selection designed to emphasize the device’s sophisticated positioning:
- Black (same as iPhone 16)
- White (brighter and colder than iPhone 16)
- Light Blue (Pantone 657 U)
- Light Gold (Pantone 11-0604 TPG Gardenia)
According to MacWorld‘s sources, Apple deliberately chose less saturated colors for the iPhone 17 Air to reinforce the device’s lightness. At just 145 grams and 5.5mm thick, the color palette reflects the model’s premium positioning. The light blue will reportedly resemble the Sky Blue introduced with the M4 MacBook Air, while the Gardenia gold will appear as a lighter version of the current Desert Titanium found on iPhone 16 Pro models.
iPhone 17 Pro models introduce bold new copper-orange option
Photo: X.com@SonnyDickson
The iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max will feature five color options, including Apple’s most adventurous Pro color choice in recent years, orange:
- Black (same as iPhone 16 Pro)
- White (same as iPhone 16 Pro)
- Gray (similar to Natural Titanium)
- Dark Blue (Pantone 19-4025 TPG Mood Indigo)
- Orange (Pantone 1501243 TCX Papaya)
The dark blue option brings back the popular Blue Titanium finish that was exclusive to iPhone 15 Pro models before being discontinued with the iPhone 16 Pro lineup. The orange color represents a significant departure from Apple’s traditionally conservative Pro color palette. Some sources described it as having a “fluorescent” copper-toned appearance.
Material changes may affect final appearance
Apple’s rumored transition from titanium to aluminum for certain iPhone 17 Pro components could significantly impact how these colors ultimately appear. The different material properties may result in varied light reflection, texture and overall visual presentation compared to current titanium finishes.
Sources note that due to real-world materials and lighting conditions, the actual device colors may differ slightly from their Pantone-based representations. This material shift comes as Apple continues refining its manufacturing processes while maintaining the premium feel Pro customers expect.
