It looks like the rumors of iPhone discoloration and overheating have finally found some resolution. MacRumors.com has just reported that they have an answer to a problem that's plagued the iPhone 3GS since launch.

Apparently the discoloration we previously thought was permanent damage due to overheating is really just caused by contact to 3rd party iPhone cases. As Hardmac reports;

“According to discussion between French iPhone editor and Apple Support, the red strips are not linked to a potential overheating of the iPhone 3GS, but rather to a chemical reaction due to a component found in some protection enclosure originally sold to preserve the precious device! Indeed, they could show that a small label sticked on the enclosure prevented the corresponding area on the backside of the iPhone to turn red.”

Apparently this problem is pretty easy to fix. Just get some alcohol wipes and the discoloration should wipe right off.