Now, this Blog is not about the iPhone 18 series, but specifically about the iPhone 18 Pro Max, because we already have complete details about Apple’s Pro lineup—what changes are coming, what colors will be offered, pricing, launch timeline, everything has basically been revealed.
Let me first clear one thing up. Until now, Apple used to launch iPhones once a year, and the same happened with the iPhone 17 Pro Max, where we saw four devices launched together. But this is going to change starting in 2026. Apple will now launch iPhones twice a year.
Technically, Apple is already doing two launches per year. The reason is that we see Apple’s official flagship launch around September, where the 17 Pro Max series was introduced. But if you remember, over the past few years, Apple has also started launching a model at the start of the year. For example, in early 2025, we saw the iPhone 16e.
Now Apple is restructuring this strategy, and from now on we will see two major launches every year.
September launch:
This will include Apple’s Pro iPhones, meaning:
iPhone 18 Pro
iPhone 18 Pro Max
Apple’s foldable smartphone
So three models will launch in September.
Later launch (2027):
We will then see:
iPhone 18
iPhone 18e
iPhone 18 Air
The point is, people who already bought the iPhone 17 series or the iPhone Air should be happy, because the next Air model won’t come until 2027. There’s no need to upgrade before that.
Why is Apple doing this?
Because whenever Apple launches multiple phones together, consumers compare them and decide which one to buy. Apple now wants to capture the market more effectively—launch premium phones first to maintain prestige, then later introduce more affordable models with strong features.
That’s why the Pro models come first, and after some time passes, the standard and “value for money” models like the iPhone 18 and 18e will be launched for budget-conscious buyers.
Design & Build Changes
Apple is making big changes with the iPhone 18 Pro Max.
Even the iPhone 17 Pro Max is noticeably thicker compared to earlier models. Despite having an aluminum body, it weighs over 233 grams. Apple is taking this even further with the iPhone 18 Pro Max.
The iPhone 18 Pro Max will be:
Thicker
Heavier
Designed specifically for performance users
People who want a thin and sleek phone will likely prefer the iPhone Air. This seems to be Apple’s long-term strategy.
New Colors
When Apple introduced the orange color, people said Apple finally changed things after a long time. But next year, Apple is bringing three very unique colors:
Burgundy (Maroon-like)
This will replace orange as the flagship color.Brown / Coffee Color
A very interesting choice, and likely to be popular with many users.Purple
This is surprising because Apple usually reserves bright colors for non-Pro models. Pro iPhones typically come in silver, black, and similar tones—but that’s changing.
These unusual colors mean Pro users may end up keeping a case on their phones all the time.
Back Glass Design
Previously, the back glass and body had slightly different shades. Apple is now eliminating this.
In the iPhone 18 series:
The back glass color will match the body much better
There are rumors that the glass will be slightly transparent, allowing faint visibility of internal components
This feels inspired by Nothing’s design philosophy. Initially it looked strange in leaks, but now it doesn’t seem that bad.
Camera Upgrade (Major)
We previously mentioned that Samsung will manufacture the camera sensor for the iPhone 18 series. Initially, people thought Apple would use an older Samsung sensor.
But now it’s confirmed:
Samsung has made a custom sensor exclusively for Apple
Samsung itself cannot use this sensor in its own phones
This will be a triple-layer stacked sensor, featuring:
Variable aperture (a first for iPhones)
Variable Aperture Explained Simply:
Lower f-numbers (f/1.4, f/2.2):
More light, better low-light performance, stronger background blurHigher f-numbers (f/16):
Less light, more clarity, less blur
With variable aperture, the iPhone can automatically decide:
When to blur the background
When to keep everything sharp
This is especially useful for:
Group photography
Situations where blur is not desired
Android phones have had this feature for years (first seen around the Samsung S10).
Processor & Battery
Apple will use a 2nm A20 chip for the first time.
Much faster than before
30% better battery efficiency compared to A19
Significant improvement over A17 in terms of power efficiency
On top of that:
The battery size itself will be larger
Overall, the iPhone 18 Pro Max could offer 30–40% better battery life compared to the iPhone 17 Pro Max, which already has excellent battery performance.
Front Design Changes
The biggest visual change will be on the front.
Earlier rumors suggested a three-dot cutout design for Face ID and sensors. That is still happening, but:
The pill-shaped cutout will be smaller
The center area will always appear black and won’t distract users
This design is similar to what Honor has been using in its flagship phones for years with their 3D Time-of-Flight sensors.
Side Button Change
Another major change could be the side camera shutter button.
Leaks suggest:
Apple may remove this button entirely from the iPhone 18 series
Or keep it only for Pro models
The reason:
If this button breaks, Apple must replace the entire body
It’s not easily repairable
It’s becoming a problem for Apple itself
Final Thoughts
Let me know in the comments what you think about Apple’s new color choices.
Personally, I believe a black Pro iPhone is essential. But Apple has faced issues with black aluminum bodies before—like in the iPhone 7 series—where scratches were very noticeable.
That’s likely why Apple is moving toward brighter colors, as scratches are less visible.
Let me know your opinions on the iPhone 18 in the comments.