Apple’s upcoming iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max are generating buzz well before their anticipated release, with leaks suggesting some modifications compared to the iPhone 17 Pro models. Recently, tipster Instant Digital hinted that the iPhone 18 Pro Max could potentially become Apple’s heaviest flagship device to date.
The speculated weight of the iPhone 18 Pro Max is rumored to exceed 240 grams, indicating a significant increase over the current and previous Pro Max iterations. These potential adjustments signal Apple’s readiness to make substantial changes to its premium smartphone range.
Instant Digital shared details on Chinese social media platform Weibo, suggesting that the iPhone 18 Pro Max might weigh over 240 grams, surpassing the 233-gram weight of the iPhone 17 Pro Max. The forthcoming device is projected to be approximately 10 grams heavier than its predecessor, representing a notable weight gain compared to recent Apple smartphones.
Furthermore, the iPhone 18 Pro Max is set to surpass the weights of the iPhone 14 Pro Max and iPhone 13 Pro Max, both weighing 240 grams. This increase in weight is attributed to design alterations and hardware enhancements, with the extra weight likely due to a thicker chassis anticipated to measure nearly 9mm, slightly above the 8.8mm profile of the iPhone 17 Pro Max.
The rumored increase in weight and thickness of the iPhone 18 Pro Max is believed to stem from forthcoming internal hardware upgrades. The upcoming iPhone 18 Pro series is expected to feature an under-display Face ID system and revamped camera components. There are also indications of a battery encased in steel, although Apple has not confirmed whether this will involve a capacity boost. These enhancements typically contribute to bulkier devices, potentially explaining the augmented weight and thickness.
Aesthetic revisions are also reportedly in the works, including a possibility that Apple will match the color of the aluminum frame with the reinforced glass rear panel, addressing the dual-tone finish observed on the iPhone 17 Pro series.
The iPhone 18 series launch is anticipated to be split, with the iPhone 18 Pro, 18 Pro Max, and the rumored iPhone fold expected to debut in September 2026. Conversely, the base iPhone 18 is likely to be launched in early 2027 alongside the affordable iPhone 18e.
Initially, it was speculated that the second-generation iPhone Air would launch alongside the iPhone 18 Pro models. However, it has reportedly been delayed due to lower-than-expected sales, with uncertainty surrounding its release date. It could potentially launch alongside the base iPhone 18 in early 2027.
Details on the pricing of the iPhone 18 series remain scarce, with Apple possibly maintaining prices from the iPhone 17 lineup. The base iPhone 17 was launched at Rs 82,900, while the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max were unveiled at Rs 1,34,900 and Rs 1,49,900, respectively.