iPhone 18 Pro Max tipped to keep its familiar footprint as Apple focuses on internal improvements

A fresh leak has revealed new details about the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro Max, offering an early look at the physical design of Apple's next flagship smartphone. The latest information suggests that Apple may not make significant changes to one key aspect of the handset's construction, even as the company prepares a broader design refresh. Apple is expected to unveil the new devices in the third quarter of 2026.

According to a post on Weibo by tipster Ice Universe, the iPhone 18 Pro Max will measure 8.75mm in thickness. The handset is reportedly set to retain a similar profile to that of the iPhone 17 Pro Max. The claim differs slightly from earlier reports, which suggested that the upcoming top-end model could be around 8.8mm thick.

More from Tech

The tipster also claims that Apple is focusing much of its attention on the rumoured iPhone Ultra. The name has frequently been linked to reports about Apple's first foldable iPhone, which is expected to join the company's smartphone lineup as a new premium offering.

Previous leaks suggest the iPhone 18 Pro Max could become one of Apple's heaviest smartphones in recent years. A tipster previously claimed the device may weigh more than 240g, potentially making it the heaviest iPhone since the iPhone 14 Pro Max. The increase in weight is expected to result from internal hardware upgrades rather than any change in the phone's overall thickness.

Reports also indicate that Apple may equip the iPhone 18 Pro Max with a larger battery, with capacity ranging between 5,100mAh and 5,200mAh, up slightly from the 5,088mAh battery found in the iPhone 17 Pro Max. To accommodate the larger battery while retaining the same chassis thickness and 6.9-inch display, Apple could redesign internal components or optimise space within the device.

Beyond battery improvements, the iPhone 18 Pro lineup is rumoured to feature a smaller Dynamic Island, Apple's next-generation C2 modem, an updated Camera Control system, and a new primary camera with variable-aperture technology.

Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 18 Pro series in September 2026, potentially alongside the company's first foldable iPhone.