SYDNEY, 24 February 2026 – As Apple prepares for its next major hardware cycle, the iPhone 18 Pro Max has officially entered the trial production phase. Reports emerging this week suggest that the 2026 flagship will not only push the boundaries of processing power with a world-first 2-nanometer chip but may also introduce a bold new aesthetic to succeed the popular “Cosmic Orange” of the current iPhone 17 Pro series.
Trial Production and Release Timeline
According to supply chain leaks surfacing on 23 February, Apple has commenced test production for the iPhone 18 Pro series. This early manufacturing stage allows the tech giant to refine the assembly process and ensure yield rates for new components, such as the rumoured under-screen Face ID sensors. While the standard iPhone 18 may see a staggered release, the Pro and Pro Max models are firmly on track for a September 2026 debut, likely alongside Apple’s first-ever foldable device.
Key Specifications and Rumoured Features
The iPhone 18 Pro Max is expected to be the pinnacle of Apple’s engineering, featuring the A20 Pro silicon. This chip is widely tipped to be built on TSMC’s 2nm process, offering a significant leap in energy efficiency and thermal management over the current 3nm architecture.
| Feature | Expected Specification (iPhone 18 Pro Max) |
|---|---|
| Processor | A20 Pro (2-nanometer process) |
| Display | LTPO OLED with 120Hz ProMotion (More energy-efficient) |
| Front Camera | 24-megapixel selfie sensor |
| Rear Camera | Variable aperture main lens; improved zoom capabilities |
| Battery | 5,100 mAh to 5,200 mAh capacity |
| Storage | 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB options |
| Design | Smaller Dynamic Island; Under-screen Face ID |
A New “Deep Red” Signature Colour
Following the commercial success of the iPhone 17 Pro’s “Cosmic Orange,” Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reports that Apple is currently testing a “Deep Red” finish for the 18 Pro Max. This sophisticated hue is intended to differentiate the new flagship from its predecessors, though some purists on social media have expressed concern that classic shades like Space Grey may be sidelined in favour of more experimental tones.
Camera and Display Innovations
Photography remains a central focus for the 2026 lineup. Tipsters suggest the front-facing camera will receive its first major resolution bump in years, moving to a 24-megapixel sensor for sharper video calls and selfies. On the rear, a variable aperture system is rumoured for the primary lens, allowing for better depth-of-field control and improved low-light performance. Additionally, the Dynamic Island is expected to shrink further as Apple successfully migrates more Face ID components beneath the display panel.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the iPhone 18 Pro Max be released?
The iPhone 18 Pro Max is expected to be announced in September 2026, following Apple’s traditional autumn release schedule. Pre-orders typically begin the Friday following the event.
Will the iPhone 18 Pro Max have a better battery?
Yes, rumours point to a larger battery capacity of up to 5,200 mAh. Combined with the efficiency of the 2nm A20 Pro chip, users should see a noticeable improvement in daily endurance.
Is there an iPhone Fold coming too?
Latest industry reports suggest that Apple may unveil its first foldable iPhone alongside the iPhone 18 Pro series in late 2026, marking one of the most significant transitions in the company’s history.
What is the expected price?
While official pricing has not been confirmed, analysts expect the iPhone 18 Pro Max to start at a similar price point to previous Pro Max models, likely beginning at A$1,849 or higher depending on storage configurations.