The iPhone 17 series, including the Max model, is just around the corner. With that in mind, we’re focusing on the iPhone 17 Pro Max and why it needs to offer more than the other models in the lineup.
Why is this important? The ‘Max’ branding has long been associated with Apple’s larger iPhones, but these models haven’t quite made the same impact as Samsung’s ‘Ultra’ series. Samsung’s Ultra phones are packed with premium features, including advanced zoom capabilities, setting them apart from the rest.
Here are three key upgrades Apple needs to bring to the iPhone 17 Pro Max to make it truly stand out from the rest of the iPhone 17 lineup—especially the iPhone 17 Pro—and not just be a larger version of the same device.
1. Enhanced Camera Sensors
The iPhone Max models provide more space for larger sensors, and Apple should capitalize on this. Competitors like the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, Vivo X200 Pro, and other flagship phones already feature large camera sensors and advanced zoom capabilities, offering up to 100x zoom. While extreme zoomed-in images aren’t always practical, having the option remains valuable.
With the added size of the Max models, Apple should introduce larger sensors for both the main camera and the telephoto lens. Currently, the telephoto sensor is limited to 12 megapixels with a 25x zoom. Given the available space, Apple has an opportunity to improve zoom capabilities and overall camera performance.
2. Larger Battery Capacity
The iPhone 16 Pro Max already offers impressive battery life, typically lasting a day and a half for most users. With moderate usage, many users still have 40–50% of their battery remaining by the end of the day. Reports indicate that the iPhone 16 Pro Max is equipped with a 4,685mAh battery. However, when compared to Android flagships like the Pixel 9 Pro XL and OnePlus 13, it falls behind in terms of battery capacity—though this doesn’t necessarily translate to shorter battery life.
If Apple were to include a truly ‘Max’ battery—around 5,500mAh or even 6,000mAh—it could firmly establish the Pro Max as the ultimate battery powerhouse. With its larger size, the phone has ample space to accommodate a bigger battery, boosting endurance even more.
3. Improved Use of Screen Space
Despite having a larger display, the iPhone Pro Max models provide essentially the same software experience as their smaller counterparts—just on a bigger screen. Apple should look to Samsung for inspiration and introduce a variety of multitasking features.
A feature like split-screen multitasking, which is highly valued on Samsung and other Android devices, would make the iPhone 17 Pro Max’s larger display far more practical. If Apple wants the Pro Max to truly stand out, it needs to offer exclusive software features that take full advantage of the extra screen space.
