Apple is set to unveil its iPhone 18 series next year, and iPhone 18 Pro Max, the flagship model, is predicted to claim the title of the heaviest iPhone to date.
Chinese tech insider Instant Digital reported on Friday that the iPhone 18 Pro Max is expected to weigh approximately 243 grams (8.57 ounces). This marks a 10-gram increase from its aluminum-clad predecessor, the iPhone 17 Pro Max (233 grams, 8.22 ounces). Notably, it’s projected to outweigh even the previous heavyweights, the iPhone 14 Pro Max and iPhone 13 Pro Max, both of which came in at 240 grams (8.47 ounces). Industry analysts attribute this weight gain to the integration of an advanced Face ID system and enhanced camera components.
The iPhone 18 Pro Max is also rumored to be bulking up in thickness, potentially measuring around 9 mm (0.354 inches) compared to the iPhone 17 Pro Max’s 8.75 mm (0.344 inches). Speculation suggests this could be due to Apple incorporating a larger battery or expanding the cooling system for the cutting-edge 2-nanometer A20 chipset. In terms of aesthetics, Apple is expected to refine the design by harmonizing the aluminum exterior of the iPhone 18’s rear panel with its reinforced glass color scheme.
The iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and iPhone Fold – Apple’s first foldable phone – are anticipated to launch next September. While the second-generation iPhone Air was initially expected to debut simultaneously, reports indicate its launch has been postponed due to underwhelming sales. The Information, a reputable U.S. tech publication, revealed that Apple has notified engineers and external suppliers about the iPhone Air’s delayed release.
Apple is also scaling back iPhone Air production. Foxconn, Apple’s primary iPhone assembler, has dismantled all but one and a half production lines for the iPhone Air and plans to halt all production by month’s end. Another assembly partner, Luxshare, ceased production entirely late last month. Market research firm Consumer Intelligence Research Partners (CIRP) reported that as of September, the iPhone Air accounted for a mere 3% of total iPhone sales.
