iPhone 18 Pro Max to Feature Enhanced Camera System and Increased Thickness; iPhone Ultra Dummy Unit Compared to iPad Mini
Apple’s forthcoming iPhone 18 Pro Max is anticipated to be thicker than its predecessor, the iPhone 17 Pro Max, primarily due to enhancements in the camera system. YouTuber Vadim Yuryev from the Max Tech channel has provided measurements based on iPhone 18 Pro Max dummy units, highlighting these changes. ([9to5mac.com](https://9to5mac.com/%22https%3A/9to5mac.com/2026/04/23/iphone-18-pro-max-may-be-thicker-iphone-ultra-dummy-unit-compared-to-17-pro-max/%22?utm_source=openai))
Enhanced Camera System Leads to Increased Thickness
According to Yuryev, both the camera plateau and the camera lenses on the iPhone 18 Pro Max will protrude more compared to the iPhone 17 Pro Max. The specific measurements are as follows:
– iPhone 17 Pro Max:
– Thickness including cameras: 12.92mm
– Thickness at the camera plateau: 11.23mm
– iPhone 18 Pro Max:
– Thickness including cameras: 13.77mm
– Thickness at the camera plateau: 11.54mm
Apple officially lists the depth of both the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max at 8.75mm, excluding the camera system. The increased thickness in the iPhone 18 Pro Max is attributed to the upgraded camera system expected in this year’s Pro lineup. ([9to5mac.com](https://9to5mac.com/%22https%3A/9to5mac.com/2026/04/23/iphone-18-pro-max-may-be-thicker-iphone-ultra-dummy-unit-compared-to-17-pro-max/%22?utm_source=openai))
While the change in depth may be subtle at first glance, it signifies Apple’s commitment to enhancing camera capabilities, even if it means a slight increase in device thickness. This approach contrasts with the ultra-thin design of the iPhone Air line, allowing the Pro models to prioritize performance and advanced features.
iPhone Ultra Compared to iPad Mini
Yuryev also provided comparisons between the iPhone Ultra—a rumored name for Apple’s upcoming foldable display model—and existing Apple products. In one comparison, the iPhone Ultra dummy unit is placed alongside an iPad mini, showcasing the device’s super-thin bezels, which make the display size nearly comparable to the iPad mini. Yuryev noted that the device feels excellent in hand, especially for gaming experiences like playing Call of Duty with on-screen controls. ([9to5mac.com](https://9to5mac.com/%22https%3A/9to5mac.com/2026/04/23/iphone-18-pro-max-may-be-thicker-iphone-ultra-dummy-unit-compared-to-17-pro-max/%22?utm_source=openai))
In another comparison, the iPhone Ultra’s open display is juxtaposed with the iPhone 17 Pro Max. The iPhone Ultra offers a display width similar to the 17 Pro Max but is 56.9% taller, measuring 71mm in width versus 111.5mm in height. This design is expected to provide a more immersive experience for 16:9 video content and gaming. ([9to5mac.com](https://9to5mac.com/%22https%3A/9to5mac.com/2026/04/23/iphone-18-pro-max-may-be-thicker-iphone-ultra-dummy-unit-compared-to-17-pro-max/%22?utm_source=openai))
Anticipated Features of the iPhone Ultra
Apple’s first foldable display iPhone, potentially named the iPhone Ultra, is expected to support running two iPhone apps side-by-side, enhancing multitasking capabilities. While some rumors suggested a delayed launch compared to the iPhone 18 Pro, recent information indicates no significant delay, with both devices expected to debut this fall. ([9to5mac.com](https://9to5mac.com/%22https%3A/9to5mac.com/2026/04/23/iphone-18-pro-max-may-be-thicker-iphone-ultra-dummy-unit-compared-to-17-pro-max/%22?utm_source=openai))
Additional Insights on iPhone 18 Pro Max
Beyond the camera enhancements, the iPhone 18 Pro Max is rumored to feature a larger battery capacity. Leaker Digital Chat Station reports that the device will have a battery capacity of approximately 5000 mAh for models with a SIM slot and nearly 5200 mAh for eSIM-only models. This increase is expected to extend the device’s battery life, building upon the already impressive performance of the iPhone 17 Pro Max. ([9to5mac.com](https://9to5mac.com/2026/02/06/iphone-18-pro-maxs-new-battery-gains-revealed-by-leaker/?utm_source=openai))
The iPhone 18 Pro Max is also expected to maintain the same display sizes as its predecessor, with the Pro model featuring a 6.3-inch screen and the Pro Max model a 6.9-inch screen. However, significant changes are anticipated in the display technology, including the introduction of under-display Face ID, which would eliminate the need for a notch and provide a more seamless viewing experience. ([9to5mac.com](https://9to5mac.com/2025/06/19/leaker-doubles-down-on-two-key-display-changes-for-the-iphone-18-pro/?utm_source=openai))
Design Evolution and Market Strategy
Apple’s design strategy appears to be diverging, with the iPhone Air line focusing on ultra-thin designs, while the Pro models, including the iPhone 18 Pro Max, are embracing increased thickness to accommodate advanced features like enhanced camera systems and larger batteries. This approach caters to different segments of the market, offering options for users who prioritize sleekness and portability, as well as those who value performance and feature-rich devices.
The introduction of the iPhone Ultra signifies Apple’s entry into the foldable smartphone market, aiming to compete with existing foldable devices by offering unique features such as a crease-free display and the ability to run multiple apps simultaneously. The design comparisons with the iPad mini suggest that Apple is targeting users who desire a larger display experience in a more compact form factor.
Conclusion
The upcoming iPhone 18 Pro Max and the rumored iPhone Ultra represent significant advancements in Apple’s smartphone lineup. The Pro Max’s increased thickness accommodates an upgraded camera system and larger battery, while the iPhone Ultra introduces a foldable design with features aimed at enhancing multitasking and media consumption. These developments reflect Apple’s commitment to innovation and its responsiveness to diverse consumer preferences.
