Months before its expected launch, the iPhone 18 Pro Max has been the focus of leaks and speculation. One topic in particular has taken center stage: battery life. New evidence from the supply chain suggests that Apple is specifically addressing this issue and aims to make the next Pro Max model noticeably more durable. The information available so far paints a fairly clear picture of what's in store.
Battery life has been a key focus for iPhones for years, especially for the larger Pro Max models. Apple typically avoids radical approaches, instead combining moderately larger batteries with more efficient hardware. This principle is expected to continue with the iPhone 18 Pro Max. Recent leaks provide concrete figures and technical details to support this.
Larger battery according to the supply chain
The source of this new information is the well-known Weibo leaker Digital Chat Station. Citing supply chain sources, he reports that the iPhone 18 Pro Max will have a battery with a capacity of approximately 5,100 to 5,200 mAh. This would slightly increase the size of Apple's largest iPhone battery to date.
For comparison: The iPhone 17 Pro Max has a 5,088 mAh battery and, according to Apple, lasts up to 39 hours (this refers to the US version). In a recently published battery test, it also achieved the longest overall battery life for a smartphone. Apple also came out on top across all brands. Against this backdrop, the decision to use an even larger battery seems logical.
Efficiency gains through the A20 Pro chip
Besides the battery size, the new processor also plays a crucial role. The iPhone 18 Pro Max is expected to be equipped with the A20 Pro chip, manufactured using TSMC's 2-nanometer process. This advanced manufacturing process promises significant efficiency improvements compared to the previous generation.
Combined with the larger battery, the iPhone 18 Pro Max should easily achieve a battery life of over 40 hours. At the same time, the casing is expected to be slightly thicker than its predecessor to compensate for the additional space required by the battery. The focus is clearly on endurance rather than minimal thickness.
Classification compared to the iPhone 17 Pro Max
The iPhone 17 Pro Max is currently considered the benchmark for smartphone battery life. With its 5,088 mAh capacity and officially stated runtime of up to 39 hours, it already sets a high standard. If Apple increases both the battery capacity and chip efficiency in the iPhone 18 Pro Max, the next logical step forward will be achieved.
The strategy remains typical for Apple: no extreme leaps in individual components, but a balanced overall package of hardware and software.
Other iPhone 18 models and a foldable iPhone
In addition to the iPhone 18 Pro Max, the iPhone 18 Pro and a first foldable iPhone are also expected to be released. This foldable model could also boast exceptionally long battery life. Rumors suggest a battery with more than 5,500 mAh is planned. That would not only be the largest battery in an iPhone, but also larger than those in any currently available competing foldable device.
All of the aforementioned models are also expected to feature several technical innovations. These include a smaller Dynamic Island, the new C2 modem, simplified camera controls, a 24-megapixel front camera, and an improved main camera with a variable aperture. These changes apply to both the iPhone 18 Pro and the iPhone 18 Pro Max.
iPhone 18 Pro Max places a clear focus on maximum battery life
The iPhone 18 Pro Max appears to be a logical evolution of its predecessor, with a clear focus on battery life. A battery with up to 5,200 mAh, combined with the efficient A20 Pro chip manufactured using a 2-nanometer process, suggests a battery life of well over 40 hours. Even if this results in a slightly thicker casing, the direction remains clear. Apple continues to prioritize controlled improvements over experimentation and could once again set the benchmark for long battery life in the smartphone segment with the iPhone 18 Pro Max. (Image: Shutterstock / Stockinq)
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