According to tech insider Instant Digital via social media platform Weibo, the iPhone 17 Pro Max will reportedly feature a 5,000mAh battery - marking the largest battery ever seen in an iPhone.

The 5,000mAh figure is believed to be an approximation rather than a precise specification. Nonetheless, it provides a clear signal that Apple is significantly upgrading the battery capacity on its flagship device this year.

For context, previous models in the Pro Max line featured the following batteries: iPhone 14 Pro Max at 4,323mAh, iPhone 15 Pro Max at 4,422mAh, and iPhone 16 Pro Max at 4,676mAh. If the iPhone 17 Pro Max does reach 5,000mAh, that would represent nearly a 10% increase over its predecessor.

While a larger battery usually means longer usage time, the improvement in battery life won’t be exactly proportional. Real-world performance depends on various factors including new hardware features, power optimization in iOS 26, thermal management, processor efficiency, and screen refresh rates.

Earlier in March 2025, another leak suggested that the iPhone 17 Pro Max would have a slightly thicker chassis - 8.725mm compared to 8.25mm on the iPhone 16 Pro Max. The minor increase in thickness could accommodate a larger battery, estimated to be about 400mAh more. The consistency between these two sources makes the leak increasingly credible.

Apple focuses on battery longevity

Apple is also expected to debut a new battery management system in iOS 26 aimed at extending battery lifespan through smarter energy control. While this feature will benefit all iPhone models, it appears to be particularly tailored for the upcoming iPhone 17 Air, which is rumored to have a smaller battery.

Additionally, the iPhone Fold, Apple’s anticipated foldable model, is facing similar battery challenges due to the slimness required for a foldable design. Apple is reportedly reworking the foldable display structure to help improve battery life.

Another battery innovation comes in the form of silicon-anode battery technology, developed by Japan’s TDK. The iPhone 17 Air, also referred to as the iPhone 17 Slim, is expected to be the first to use this advanced battery, which could deliver 15% more energy compared to traditional battery designs.

Although the new battery tech is only just ready for mass production, if proven effective, it may appear in next year’s iPhone 18 Pro Max.

Pro Max models traditionally offer better battery life than their smaller Pro counterparts, but this year, the gap may widen significantly. For reference, Apple currently rates the iPhone 16 Pro Max at up to 33 hours of video playback, 29 hours of streaming, and 105 hours of audio playback. These numbers could rise further with the iPhone 17 Pro Max.

As per tradition, Apple is expected to launch the iPhone 17 lineup in September. The 2025 series will likely include the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, and the ultra-slim iPhone 17 Air. While the Pro and Pro Max models usually draw the most attention, this year’s launch could see the iPhone 17 Air making a bold impression.

Hai Phong