While the iPhone 17 series has only been on the shelves for a few months, there has already been an influx of rumors and speculation about the iPhone 18 series, which is expected to launch in September 2026. The latest rumor regarding the iPhone 18 Pro Max suggests internal changes and a potential increase in both thickness and weight.
According to Chinese leaker Instant Digital, the iPhone 18 Pro Max will be the heaviest iPhone Apple has ever produced, weighing over 240 grams. The leaker also noted that the device will be slightly thicker than its predecessor, suggesting that some hardware changes may be forthcoming.
In another post on Weibo, Instant Digital mentioned that there will be a 10-gram difference between the iPhone 18 Pro Max and the iPhone 17 Pro Max. To recall, the iPhone 17 Pro Max weighs 233 grams, which, according to Instant Digital, means the iPhone 18 Pro Max will weigh around 243 grams. If this turns out to be true, the iPhone 18 Pro Max will be around 3 grams heavier than the iPhone 14 Pro Max, weighing approximately 240 grams.
Here"s how it compares with other phones:
| Model | Weight |
|---|---|
| iPhone 18 Pro Max | 243 grams |
| Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra | 218 grams |
| Google Pixel 10 Pro XL | 232 grams |
| Xiaomi 17 Pro Max | 219 grams |
It remains to be seen why Apple would make the iPhone 18 Pro Max thicker while emphasizing thinner, lightweight designs with the launch of the ultra-thin iPhone Air this year. One possible explanation is that Apple may be looking to make room for a larger battery in the iPhone 18 Pro Max.
Recent reports suggest that iPhone Air sales have declined in international markets, with most customers opting for the base or Pro variants of the iPhone 17. Other reports also note that the launch of the iPhone Air 2 may be delayed due to weak demand.
Perhaps Apple has finally realized that making a device thinner and lighter alone is not a strong selling point, as customers now prioritize other factors such as longer battery life.