Apple iPhone 18 Pro Max tipped to debut with variable-aperture camera and A20 Pro chip

Apple is rumoured to unveil the apple iphone 18 pro max in September 2026, alongside the smaller Pro model, the iPhone Air 2, and the long-awaited iPhone Fold. The upcoming flagship is expected to introduce several notable changes, including a new variable-aperture camera system, the A20 Pro processor, and a slightly heavier build. Among all the leaks, the variable-aperture system—reportedly exclusive to the Pro Max—stands out as the most exciting upgrade.

New A20 Pro chip may power the Apple iPhone 18 Pro Max

The apple iphone 18 pro max is expected to be powered by Apple’s upcoming A20 Pro chip, reportedly the company’s first processor built on a 2nm manufacturing process. The chip is said to use Wafer-Level Multi-Chip Module (WMCM) packaging, making it smaller, faster, and more energy-efficient than previous generations.

Apple may also introduce its own in-house modem for the first time in Pro models, replacing third-party solutions. This shift, combined with the efficiency gains of the A20 Pro, is expected to significantly improve battery life.

Apple iPhone 18 Pro Max may come with a heavier body and a new Face ID cutout

Compared to the iPhone 17 Pro Max, which weighs 233 grammes, the apple iphone 18 pro max could be around 10 grammes heavier. The added weight is likely due to a larger battery, an upgraded camera system, or both.

Apple is also reportedly planning to move more Face ID components under the display, further shrinking the Dynamic Island. The front camera may shift to the upper-left corner, while the 6.9-inch display size is expected to remain unchanged. New colour options such as burgundy, purple, and coffee brown are being tested, and the two-tone design seen on the iPhone 17 Pro Max may be toned down.

Apple iPhone 18 Pro Max camera setup may get a major change

Both Pro models are expected to retain the same triple-camera setup as the iPhone 17 Pro Max: a 48MP primary camera, a 48MP ultra-wide camera, and a 48MP periscope telephoto lens with 4x optical zoom. However, the apple iphone 18 pro max is rumoured to introduce a variable-aperture system, setting it apart from the smaller Pro model.

The Pro Max may also feature an 18MP front camera. Additionally, Apple could remove the physical camera control button, replacing it with a pressure-sensitive sensor.

Apple has yet to confirm the pricing details of the Apple iPhone 18 Pro Max

Apple has not officially revealed pricing for the apple iphone 18 pro max. The iPhone 17 Pro Max currently starts at $1,199, the same as its predecessor. However, speculation suggests a potential price increase due to the ongoing global RAM shortage.

The apple iphone 18 pro max is shaping up to be a major upgrade, with a new A20 Pro chip, a heavier but more capable design, and a standout variable-aperture camera system. While Apple has yet to confirm official details, the device is expected to deliver noticeable improvements in camera performance and battery life when it launches in 2026.