iPhone 17 Pro vs Pro Max: Key differences and camera upgrades

The iPhone 17 Pro Max and Pro have similar screen sizes, but the Pro Max is thicker and has a bigger battery, making it the longest-lasting iPhone ever. The Pro Max also has a bigger camera system and may have a new telephoto lens upgrade. The design of the Pro Max has been updated, and it has a longer battery life, making it a better choice for those who want the best iPhone experience.

Apple is set to launch the iPhone 17 series, with the iPhone 17 Pro Max and Pro models expected to offer significant upgrades. The key difference between the two is the size and battery capacity, with the Pro Max featuring a larger battery and thicker design. This article explores the details of these upgrades and their potential impact on the user experience.

The iPhone 17 Pro Max will have a 6.9-inch screen, similar to the iPhone 16 Pro Max, but it will be thicker, measuring 8.725mm [2]. This increase in thickness allows for a larger battery, which is rumored to be around 5,000 mAh [3]. This battery size is significant, as it places the iPhone 17 Pro Max on par with the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, potentially making it the longest-lasting iPhone ever. The iPhone 17 Pro, on the other hand, will have about the same battery life as last year's model [2].

The iPhone 17 Pro Max is also expected to have a more advanced camera system. While the specifics of the camera upgrades are still unclear, there are rumors that the Pro Max might get a new telephoto lens upgrade [2]. This is a trend that Apple has followed in the past, where the Pro Max receives more advanced camera features before they are introduced to the smaller Pro model.

In addition to the camera upgrades, the iPhone 17 Pro Max will also feature a new design. The thicker design allows for the larger battery, but it also means that the device will be more substantial. This could be a trade-off for users who prioritize portability over battery life.

Overall, the iPhone 17 Pro Max appears to be a significant upgrade from last year's model. The larger battery and thicker design make it a more durable and long-lasting device, while the potential camera upgrades make it a more powerful option for photographers. However, the thicker design and larger size may be a trade-off for users who prioritize portability.

References:
[1] https://www.patentlyapple.com/2025/08/apple-wins-a-patent-for-an-optical-calibration-system-for-both-a-future-version-of-vision-pro-and-smartglasses.html
[2] https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/international/us/iphone-17-pro-max-vs-pro-the-key-differences-apple-doesnt-want-you-to-miss/articleshow/123335933.cms
[3] https://www.tomsguide.com/phones/iphones/iphone-17-pro-max-just-leaked-ahead-of-apple-event-design-battery-and-a-huge-camera-upgrade