Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro Max is the new flagship in the iPhone 17 lineup delivering top-tier hardware, pro-level camera features, and the highest storage capacity Apple has ever offered.
Key Specifications
Display
- 6.9-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with ProMotion up to 120Hz refresh rate.
- Peak brightness up to 3,000 nits and improved anti-reflection front glass (Ceramic Shield 2) and back protection.
Processor & Storage
- Powered by the A19 Pro chip built on a 3nm process for better performance and efficiency.
- Multiple storage tiers: 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB, and for the first time a 2 TB option.
Camera System
- Triple 48 MP rear cameras: Main, Ultra-Wide, and a new Telephoto lens.
- Telephoto supports optical quality zoom up to 8× via sensor crop.
- Front facing camera upgrade: 18 MP Center Stage sensor that works in both portrait and landscape modes with improved framing during video.
Battery & Charging
- Largest battery capacity ever in an iPhone (Pro Max) delivering up to 39 hours of video playback.
- Faster charging options: USB-C with high wattage wired charging, improved MagSafe speeds.
Design & Build Features
- Aluminum unibody design replacing titanium in the Pro line this year.
- New full-width camera “plateau” housing camera sensors.
- IP68 water/dust resistance, more durable front glass (Ceramic Shield 2) and back that is better protected.
How It Compares to iPhone 16 Pro Max
Performance improvements are significant
- The iPhone 17 Pro Max adds much more storage at base level than the 16 Pro Max, which starts lower.
- The display retains size but boosts in brightness and refresh consistency.
- Camera system is a step up: uniform 48 MP sensors, better telephoto, better front camera.
- Battery life increased from last gen to up to 39 hours playback, which is better than what 16 Pro Max offered under video playback metrics.
Pricing, Pre-orders & Availability
- In the U.S. the base model (256GB) iPhone 17 Pro Max is priced at $1,199.
- Pre-orders opened September 12, 2025, availability starting September 19.
- Offered in three finishes: Silver, Deep Blue, and Cosmic Orange.
Strong Points & Considerations
What makes it great
- Exceptional camera improvements especially for photography and video with higher zoom, better sensors, and more flexibility.
- Battery life is among the best Apple has delivered.
- Storage options up to 2TB will appeal to users who record a lot of video or store large media.
- Durable build, better display visibility in bright light, and more scratch resistant surfaces.
What to think about before buying
- Size and weight are on the large side (Pro Max is heavier and larger to accommodate the display and battery).
- Premium pricing especially for higher storage variants.
- Some features may depend on region (carrier support, eSIM or physical SIM options, software features).
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