Apple is expected to unveil four new iPhone models this September, including the ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air. However, with the iPhone 17 Pro Max, Apple appears to be taking the opposite direction - one that finally addresses a long-standing user request.

iPhone 17 Pro Max to feature the largest battery ever

In a year when Apple is promoting thinner and lighter iPhones, the company hasn’t forgotten those who’ve always wished for an iPhone with exceptional battery life.

If you’ve been dreaming of an iPhone with the best battery performance possible, Apple might soon make that dream come true with the iPhone 17 Pro Max.

According to trusted leaker Ice Universe, in a post on X, the next-generation Pro Max model will be 8.725mm thick, up from 8.25mm on the iPhone 16 Pro Max.

The 0.5mm increase might seem minimal - barely noticeable in the hand - but it’s enough to allow for a significantly larger battery, resulting in a major upgrade in endurance.

In another post on Weibo, Ice Universe stated, “The iPhone 17 Pro Max looks very powerful, and a thicker body clearly means a bigger battery.”

Even before the launch of the iPhone 16 Pro Max, Apple’s Pro Max line had a strong reputation for battery life. The iPhone 16 Pro Max took it further with increased size and capacity, benefiting even the smaller iPhone 16 Pro.

According to Apple, the iPhone 16 Pro Max can stream video for up to 33 hours, up from 29 hours on the iPhone 15 Pro Max.

This year, that number may climb even higher. Inspired by the success of the Apple Watch Ultra, it seems Apple is ready to deliver the one feature users want most: a battery that feels endless.

Could be renamed iPhone 17 Ultra

This major battery upgrade has led to speculation that the iPhone 17 Pro Max may be rebranded as the iPhone 17 Ultra to emphasize its superior battery and performance.

Before the launch of the iPhone 15, Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman predicted that the Pro Max would be named “Ultra,” though that didn’t happen. The rumor resurfaced during the iPhone 16 cycle, with expectations of an even more premium model - but again, it didn’t materialize.

Now, the “Ultra” name is back in the spotlight. South Korean leaker yeux1122, writing on Naver Blog, has compiled reports from Weibo, investment research, and supply chain trends, suggesting the 2025 Pro Max model could indeed debut as iPhone 17 Ultra.

According to yeux1122, only the Ultra model will feature a smaller Dynamic Island. Based on component orders, supply is reportedly limited and insufficient for both Pro models, making it likely to be exclusive to the top-tier version.

Yeux1122 also noted that only the “Ultra” may include vapor chamber cooling technology, though some sources suggest it could appear across both Pro models or even the entire iPhone 17 lineup.

Other rumored enhancements may also distinguish the Ultra. Initial leaks claimed only the Pro Max would receive 12GB of RAM, though more recent reports suggest both Pro models will share this upgrade. Similarly, it was initially said the 48MP periscope camera would be exclusive to the Pro Max, but now it appears both Pro models may feature triple 48MP rear cameras.

The "Ultra" branding could help Apple create clearer product segmentation between its two flagship models, justifying a higher price for the version packed with more cutting-edge features.

Regardless of whether the name changes, Apple is clearly splitting its flagship line into two distinct paths: those who want slim, lightweight design can opt for the iPhone 17 Air, while users seeking powerful performance and top-tier battery life will turn to the iPhone 17 Pro Max.

Hai Phong