Apple’s upcoming iPhone 18 Pro Max has appeared in a new leak that points to a familiar design rather than a dramatic physical overhaul. The latest information suggests that the flagship model could keep the same thickness as its predecessor, even as other hardware upgrades are expected.
According to details shared by tipster Ice Universe on Weibo, the iPhone 18 Pro Max may measure 8.75mm thick. If this claim is accurate, the phone would match the reported thickness of the iPhone 17 Pro Max instead of becoming noticeably thicker. The latest leak differs slightly from an earlier prediction that suggested the device could reach 8.8mm.
The tipster also indicated that Apple has been focusing significant attention on the rumoured iPhone Ultra, a name often associated with reports about the company’s first foldable iPhone. That device is widely expected to debut alongside the iPhone 18 lineup in the third quarter of 2026.
Battery could grow without changing the profile
While the iPhone 18 Pro Max may retain its current thickness, previous leaks have suggested that the phone could receive a larger battery. Reports point to a capacity in the range of 5,100mAh to 5,200mAh, which would be slightly larger than the 5,088mAh battery found in the eSIM version of the iPhone 17 Pro Max.
If Apple manages to increase battery capacity without increasing the device’s thickness, the company may achieve this through internal design changes or by reducing the size of other components. The handset is still expected to feature a 6.9-inch display.
Weight may still increase
Even if the iPhone 18 Pro Max keeps the same thickness, earlier reports have hinted that the phone could become heavier. One leak from last year suggested that the device may weigh more than 240g, potentially making it the heaviest iPhone Apple has released since the iPhone 14 Pro Max. Any increase in weight would likely be tied to changes in internal hardware rather than a thicker chassis.
Other rumoured upgrades
Beyond battery and design details, the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are expected to bring several other upgrades. Leaks have pointed to a smaller Dynamic Island, Apple’s next-generation C2 modem, a revised Camera Control implementation, and an upgraded primary camera with variable aperture support.
Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 18 Pro models in September 2026, alongside the company’s first foldable iPhone, if current launch rumours prove accurate.
FAQs
1. What does the latest iPhone 18 Pro Max leak reveal?
The latest leak suggests that the iPhone 18 Pro Max could retain the same 8.75mm thickness as the iPhone 17 Pro Max. This indicates Apple may focus on internal improvements rather than making significant changes to the phone’s overall profile.
2. Will the iPhone 18 Pro Max be thicker than its predecessor?
Based on current leak information, the iPhone 18 Pro Max is not expected to be thicker than the iPhone 17 Pro Max. The reported dimensions point to an unchanged design thickness.
3. Is Apple planning to increase the battery size in the iPhone 18 Pro Max?
Leaks indicate that Apple may equip the iPhone 18 Pro Max with a battery ranging between 5,100mAh and 5,200mAh. This would represent a slight increase over the battery found in the previous model.
4. How can Apple add a bigger battery without increasing thickness?
Apple could achieve this by redesigning internal components, improving battery technology, or optimizing the placement of hardware inside the device. However, the company has not officially confirmed these details.
5. Could the iPhone 18 Pro Max become heavier?
Some reports suggest the smartphone may weigh more than 240 grams. If true, it could become one of the heaviest premium iPhones released in recent years.
6. What display size is expected for the iPhone 18 Pro Max?
Current leaks indicate that Apple may continue using a 6.9-inch display on the iPhone 18 Pro Max, maintaining the large-screen experience offered by recent Pro Max models.
7. What camera improvements are rumored for the iPhone 18 Pro Max?
The device is expected to feature an upgraded primary camera with variable aperture support. This could provide users with greater flexibility when capturing photos in different lighting conditions.
8. Will the iPhone 18 Pro Max feature a smaller Dynamic Island?
According to reports, Apple may introduce a smaller Dynamic Island on the iPhone 18 Pro Max. This could help maximize screen space while maintaining key notification and multitasking features.
9. What is Apple’s C2 modem and why is it important?
The rumored C2 modem is expected to be Apple’s next-generation connectivity solution. It could improve network performance, efficiency, and overall wireless connectivity compared to previous generations.
10. When is the iPhone 18 Pro Max expected to launch?
Industry reports currently suggest that Apple may unveil the iPhone 18 Pro Max in September 2026 as part of the iPhone 18 series launch event.
