Apple’s Upcoming iPhone 18 Pro Max Could Be Its Heaviest Flagship Yet
Apple’s next-generation flagship, the iPhone 18 Pro Max, is already making headlines months ahead of its launch — and not just for its features. According to new leaks, the device could become the heaviest iPhone ever produced, marking a notable shift in Apple’s design direction.
Heavier Than Ever: Over 240 Grams Expected
A new leak from tipster Instant Digital on Weibo suggests that the iPhone 18 Pro Max may weigh more than 240 grams, making it at least 10 grams heavier than its predecessor, the iPhone 17 Pro Max, which weighs 233 grams. If accurate, this would make the upcoming model heavier than both the iPhone 14 Pro Max and iPhone 13 Pro Max, which tipped the scales at 240 grams each.
This would also mark the biggest weight increase for any iPhone in recent years, signaling deeper design and hardware changes under the hood.
What’s Behind the Added Weight?
Reports indicate that the extra grams are likely the result of internal hardware upgrades and design adjustments. The iPhone 18 Pro Max is rumoured to feature:
An under-display Face ID system, removing the need for a visible notch.
Reworked camera components for improved imaging.
A battery encased in steel, possibly for better durability and heat management.
The handset is also expected to feature a thicker chassis, measuring close to 9mm, compared to the 8.8mm thickness of the iPhone 17 Pro Max.
On the aesthetic front, Apple may finally unify the design by matching the colour of the aluminium frame with the reinforced glass back panel, addressing the dual-tone issue from the previous generation.
Expected Launch and Pricing
Apple is reportedly planning to split the iPhone 18 lineup launch into two phases. The iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and the rumoured iPhone Fold could debut around September 2026, while the base iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e may arrive in early 2027.
Earlier reports hinted that the iPhone Air 2 might launch alongside the Pro models, but that seems to have been postponed due to lower-than-expected sales of the first-gen iPhone Air.
While pricing remains under wraps, Apple may stick close to the iPhone 17 series range, which started at ₹82,900 for the base model and went up to ₹1,49,900 for the iPhone 17 Pro Max.
The Takeaway
If the rumours hold true, the iPhone 18 Pro Max could be Apple’s most substantial — literally and figuratively — flagship yet. Between the new under-display tech, refined design, and internal upgrades, Apple appears to be prioritising performance and innovation over portability this time around.
