iPhone 18 Pro Max’s battery is so big Apple had to add this new feature to iOS 27
Apple has officially released the iPhone 18 Pro Max and the folding iPhone Duo, bringing new hardware advancements to the market. The latest flagship devices run on the 2 nm A20 Pro chip and feature upgraded cooling and battery systems, alongside variable-aperture cameras. Retail networks including Best Buy, AT&T, and Target have stocked the new lineup, while reviews note the Pro Max model delivers powerful performance and extensive battery life reaching 37 hours. Apple also rolled out software updates to address initial user-reported bugs.
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- ✓ Apple released the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and the folding iPhone Duo on September 9, 2026.
- ✓ The new hardware features the 2 nm A20 Pro chip, a variable-aperture camera, and upgraded cooling and battery systems.
- ✓ Apple rolled out iOS 27.0.1 on September 28, 2026, to address user-reported issues such as battery drain and freezing.
- ✓ Record iPhone and Mac sales drove $114.5 billion in revenue during Apple's Q4 2026 earnings period amid supply constraints.
What changed
Apple officially launched the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and the folding iPhone Duo, moving past pre-release expectations into retail availability.
Live updates
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Apple Releases iPhone 18 Pro Max Alongside Folding iPhone Duo
Apple has officially released the iPhone 18 Pro Max and the folding iPhone Duo, bringing new hardware advancements to the market. The latest flagship devices run on the 2 nm A20 Pro chip and feature upgraded cooling and battery systems, alongside variable-aperture cameras. Retail networks including Best Buy, AT&T, and Target have stocked the new lineup, while reviews note the Pro Max model delivers powerful performance and extensive battery life reaching 37 hours. Apple also rolled out software updates to address initial user-reported bugs.
Why it matters
The September 2026 hardware launch expands Apple's smartphone ecosystem by introducing the brand's first folding device alongside traditional pro models. These releases follow reports of design upgrades such as under-display Face ID and larger power capacities. Strong consumer demand and record sales have driven high revenue for the company despite ongoing supply constraints.
What is confirmed
- Apple released the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and the folding iPhone Duo on September 9, 2026.
- The new hardware features the 2 nm A20 Pro chip, a variable-aperture camera, and upgraded cooling and battery systems.
- Apple rolled out iOS 27.0.1 on September 28, 2026, to address user-reported issues such as battery drain and freezing.
- Record iPhone and Mac sales drove $114.5 billion in revenue during Apple's Q4 2026 earnings period amid supply constraints.
Still unconfirmed
- The iPhone 18 Pro Max features under-display Face ID and triple 48MP cameras.
What to watch next
- Monitor consumer adoption rates and retail availability for the folding iPhone Duo across major carrier networks.
- Track ongoing software updates to iOS 27 for any further performance patches related to battery management.
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (12)
- www.bestbuy.com — iPhone: New Apple iPhones & Accessories - Best Buy
- www.wired.com — What’s the Best iPhone to Buy or Avoid Right Now? (2026) | WIRED
- www.ign.com — The iPhone 18 Pro Max Takes An Incredible Design and Just Makes It Faster
- www.gsmarena.com — Apple iPhone 18 Pro vs. iPhone 18 Pro Max - GSMArena.com
- mashable.com — The 10 best e-readers we've ever tested — including the 2026 Kindles
- www.target.com — iPhone - Target
- www.att.com — Newest Apple iPhones: iPhone 18 Pro, 18 Pro Max & iPhone Duo -...
- www.wionews.com — From under-display Face ID to the A20 chip: What to expect ...
- finance.yahoo.com — Apple (AAPL) Q4 2026 Earnings Call Transcript
- shattered.io — iPhone 18 Pro Battery Capacity: Apple Plays It Safe [2026]
- pokde.net — iPhone 18 Pro Max Review Malaysia: Tested Against The 17 Pro Max
- memeburn.com — Apple Watch Black Friday Deals 2026: The Prices to Beat on Series 12, Ultra 4 and SE 3
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Apple Releases iPhone 18 Pro Lineup and iOS 27.0.1 Fixes
Apple released the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and the foldable iPhone Duo on September 9, 2026. The new hardware features the 2 nm A20 Pro, a variable-aperture camera, a C2 modem, and upgraded cooling and battery systems. Alongside the new devices, Apple rolled out iOS 27.0.1 on September 28, 2026, to address user-reported issues such as battery drain and freezing. The expanded product ecosystem also includes the Apple Watch Series 12, Ultra 4, and AirPods 5, which are available across major retail networks.
Why it matters
The launch of the iPhone 18 generation brings significant internal architectural upgrades, highlighted by the 2 nm A20 Pro chip and new thermal management solutions. These hardware additions coincide with early software patches under iOS 27.0.1 to stabilize device performance. Retail availability spans multiple international markets and carriers, cementing the commercial rollout of Apple's latest hardware and software ecosystem.
What is confirmed
- Apple released the iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max, and foldable iPhone Duo on September 9, 2026.
- The iPhone 18 Pro starts at Rs 1,64,900 in India, while the Duo starts at Rs 2,99,900.
- Apple released iOS 27.0.1 on September 28, 2026, to address battery drain and freezing issues.
Still unconfirmed
- Users continue to report ongoing battery drain and freezing problems after installing iOS 27.0.1.
What to watch next
- Official carrier and retail sales data for the iPhone 18 Pro Max and foldable iPhone Duo
- Further iOS 27 software updates addressing user-reported bugs
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (4)
- www.wionews.com — Apple iPhone 18 Pro, foldable iPhone Duo launched ... - WION
- www.techinsights.com — Apple iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max: What Is New Inside?
- www.macrumors.com — iPhone 18 Pro: Use Texture Controls in Photographic Styles
- zaibis.com — iOS 27.0.1: Battery Drain, Freezing Fixes & Known Issues
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Apple launches iPhone 18 Pro Max and iPhone Duo
Apple officially expanded its smartphone lineup by releasing the iPhone 18 Pro Max, iPhone 18 Pro, and the foldable iPhone Duo on September 9, 2026. The new devices are currently available for purchase across major retail platforms, online stores, and carrier networks like O2 alongside products such as AirPods 5 and the Apple Watch Series 12. Early reviewers describe the iPhone Duo as a mixed day-one experience blending fun and annoyance, while retail listings confirm the commercial availability of the broader hardware ecosystem.
Why it matters
The iPhone line has evolved significantly since Steve Jobs introduced the first model on January 9, 2007, with a multi-touch interface. Apple continues to update its smartphone offerings annually, integrating software like iOS and newer artificial intelligence capabilities introduced in 2024.
What is confirmed
- Apple announced the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and iPhone Duo on September 9, 2026.
- The iPhone runs on the iOS operating system.
- Retail listings confirm the commercial availability of the iPhone Duo, iPhone 18 Pro, AirPods 5, and Apple Watch Series 12.
Still unconfirmed
- Early reviews describe the iPhone Duo as a mixed day-one experience balancing fun and annoyance.
What to watch next
- Further performance and battery life reviews for the iPhone 18 Pro Max.
- Long-term durability tests for the foldable iPhone Duo hinge and displays.
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (4)
- en.wikipedia.org — List of iPhone models - Wikipedia
- www.apple.com — Apple Store Online - Apple
- www.o2.co.uk — iPhone Deals | Pro, Pro Max, Plus & SE Pay Monthly Contracts
- www.absolutegeeks.com — iPhone Duo review: Apple’s first foldable just demoted my iPhone 18 Pro Max to drawer duty
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Apple Expands Lineup as Retailers List New Devices
Retail listings from major vendors confirm the arrival of a broader Apple hardware ecosystem, highlighting models such as the iPhone 18 Pro alongside newly visible products like the iPhone Duo, AirPods 5, and Apple Watch Series 12. While early reviews describe the newly introduced iPhone Duo lineup as a mixed day-one experience balancing fun and annoyance, these retail appearances cement the actual commercial availability of the hardware. Consumers can now shop sales and special offers for these devices across multiple major retail platforms.
Why it matters
The appearance of these devices across retail inventories follows the autumn 2026 launch cycle that introduced high-capacity batteries and software shipping adjustments for the hardware. Major consumer electronics outlets are positioning the new equipment alongside promotional sales as buyers evaluate initial day-one performance reports.
What is confirmed
- Walmart and Best Buy listings show availability for new Apple hardware including the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone Duo.
Still unconfirmed
- Macworld reviewers found the day-one experience of the iPhone Duo to be a mixture of delightful and annoying.
What to watch next
- Additional retail price adjustments or sales offers on newly launched Apple devices.
- Wider consumer feedback regarding day-one performance issues for the iPhone Duo.
confidence 80%Sources used for this update (3)
- www.walmart.com — Apple iPhone - Walmart.com
- www.bestbuy.com — iPhone Deals - Best Buy
- www.macworld.com — 6 iPhone Duo highs and lows that defined my day-one experience
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iPhone 18 Pro Max features A20 Pro chip and high-capacity battery
The iPhone 18 Pro Max launched in fall 2026 with a 5,391 mAh battery and a 1,299 dollar price tag. It is rated for 43 video hours, and CNET lab tests rank its battery performance first among tested iPhones. To comply with regulatory thresholds for transport, Apple integrated a Prepare to Ship feature in iOS 27 to drain the battery before shipping. The device uses an A20 Pro chip and includes a variable-aperture camera and a larger vapour chamber.
Why it matters
Apple introduced a more expensive battery replacement program alongside this hardware. The device's power efficiency is linked to the 2nm architecture of the A20 Pro chip.
What is confirmed
- The iPhone 18 Pro Max costs 1,299 dollars.
- The device is equipped with an A20 Pro chip.
- iOS 27 includes a Prepare to Ship feature to drain the battery for transport due to regulatory thresholds.
Still unconfirmed
- The device weighs 7g more than the current model.
What to watch next
- Comparative battery benchmarks between the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max
- Official Apple documentation on the new battery replacement pricing
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (6)
- 9to5mac.com — iPhone 18 Pro Max Archives - 9to5Mac
- www.mercurynews.com — I upgraded to the iPhone 18 Pro Max. But maybe you shouldn’t.
- touchreviews.net — iPhone 18 Pro Max review: power, battery and value
- www.howtogeek.com — The iPhone 18 Pro Max is basically an iPhone 17 Pro Max, but that's fine
- www.gadgetreview.com — iPhone 18 Pro Max Promises 40+ Hour Battery Life
- www.mensxp.com — iPhone 18 Pro Max Review: Apple At Its Uninhibited Best
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iPhone 18 Pro Max Battery and iOS 27 Details Emerge
Apple released the iPhone 18 Pro Max in fall 2026 with a 5,391 mAh battery, priced at 1,299 dollars, and rated for 43 video hours. Lab testing by CNET ranks the Pro Max first among tested iPhones for battery performance. Because the battery crosses regulatory thresholds, Apple added a Prepare to Ship feature in iOS 27 to drain the device before transport. The lineup also introduces a more expensive battery replacement program.
Why it matters
The iPhone 18 Pro Max represents Apple's biggest, heaviest, and longest-lasting superphone to date. Alongside a rapid chip and top cameras, the massive battery capacity required new logistical measures for shipping. Reviewers note that the device arrives with a higher price tag and costlier battery replacement options across the Pro series.
What is confirmed
- The iPhone 18 Pro Max includes a 5,391 mAh battery and is rated for 43 video hours.
- Apple priced the iPhone 18 Pro Max at 1,299 dollars.
- Apple introduced a Prepare to Ship feature in iOS 27 to drain the battery before transport due to regulatory thresholds.
- CNET ranks the iPhone 18 Pro Max first among tested iPhones in battery evaluations.
Still unconfirmed
- Separate tests report differing runtimes, charging results, and conditions for both Pro models.
What to watch next
- Further long-term battery degradation test results
- Additional runtime comparisons from lab tests
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (4)
- www.cnet.com — I Tested the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max’s Batteries and Was Awestruck by One Change
- www.theguardian.com — iPhone 18 Pro Max review: Apple’s biggest, heaviest and ...
- www.neoteo.com — iPhone 18 Pro battery test: runtimes and charging | NeoTeo
- 9to5mac.com — iPhone 18 Pro one month later: These features keep ... - 9to5Mac
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iPhone 18 Pro Max Battery Sparks Software and Cost Updates
Apple includes a 5,391 mAh battery inside the iPhone 18 Pro Max, rating the device for 43 video hours. Because the capacity crosses specific regulatory thresholds, Apple introduced a Prepare to Ship feature in iOS 27 to drain the battery before transport. Reviewers note the phone carries a 1,299 dollar price tag and arrives alongside a more expensive battery replacement program across the latest Pro models. The lineup officially launched in fall 2026.
Why it matters
The iPhone 18 Pro Max leads Apple's 2026 smartphone rollout alongside other high-end options like the foldable iPhone Duo and the iPhone Air. Its massive power delivery requires specialized thermal management, a 2nm A20 Pro chip, and a variable aperture camera system. Transport regulations governing high-capacity lithium cells necessitate strict software management during initial logistics.
What is confirmed
- The iPhone 18 Pro Max features a 5,391 mAh battery and delivers 43 video hours.
- Apple introduced a Prepare to Ship feature in iOS 27 to drain the iPhone 18 Pro Max battery to a specific state before shipping due to transport regulations.
- The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro models launched in fall 2026.
- Battery replacement services are pricier for Apple's latest iPhone 18 Pro models.
Still unconfirmed
- Battery replacement costs for the iPhone 18 Pro series have increased by a specific dollar amount not yet detailed in official service tiers.
What to watch next
- Official clarification from Apple regarding global logistics impact on standard retail delivery timelines.
- Further teardown analysis confirming thermal management integration with the 2nm A20 Pro chip.
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (25)
- www.phonearena.com — Samsung Galaxy S27 Ultra release date expectations, price estimates ...
- www.macrumors.com — iPhone 18: Rumors and Release Date
- www.cnet.com — Battery Replacement Has Gotten Pricier for Apple’s Latest iPhone 18 Pro Models
- www.apple.com — iPhone - Apple
- www.apple.com — Buy iPhone - Apple
- support.apple.com — iPhone - Official Apple Support
- en.wikipedia.org — iPhone - Wikipedia
- lifehacker.com — Four Major Issues Are Plaguing the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro ...
- www.ithinkdiff.com — Why Apple Doesn’t Tell You the iPhone’s Battery Size in mAh
- www.theverge.com — The best October Prime Day tech deals we found
- www.phonearena.com — I used the iPhone 18 Pro every day: here are the real battery ...
- www.theshortcut.com — iPhone 18 Pro Max review: camera and battery upgrades make it Apple’s best yet
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iOS 27 Prepare to Ship feature manages iPhone 18 Pro Max battery size
Apple introduced a Prepare to Ship feature in iOS 27 to drain the iPhone 18 Pro Max battery to a specific state before shipping. This software measure ensures compliance with strict transport regulations because the device battery capacity exceeds 20Wh. The requirement does not apply to other iPhone 18 Pro models. The Pro Max flagship also incorporates a 2nm A20 Pro chip, robust thermal management, and a variable aperture camera to support its increased power and performance capabilities.
Why it matters
Transporting high-capacity batteries requires adherence to safety laws to prevent hazards during transit. By automating the discharge process via software, Apple avoids hardware redesigns while meeting these legal standards.
What is confirmed
- The iPhone 18 Pro Max uses an A20 Pro chip.
- The iPhone 18 Pro Max features a variable aperture camera.
- The iPhone 18 Pro Max has improved thermal management.
- The iPhone 18 Pro Max provides longer battery life.
Still unconfirmed
- The iPhone 18 Pro Max battery capacity exceeds 20Wh.
- iOS 27 includes a Prepare to Ship feature to comply with transport regulations.
- The iPhone 18 Pro has a smaller Dynamic Island.
- The iPhone 18 Pro features an upgraded Siri.
What to watch next
- Official Apple documentation confirming the 20Wh battery capacity
- Regulatory filings regarding iPhone 18 Pro Max transport compliance
confidence 80%Sources used for this update (4)
- mashable.com — The 11 best phones of 2026, tested by experts
- www.slashgear.com — 4 iPhone 18 Pro Upgrades That Are Bigger Than You Might ...
- www.theguardian.com — Apple iPhone 18 Pro review: big changes for small differences
- www.deccanherald.com — Apple iPhone 18 Pro Max Review: Powerful performer with ...
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Apple iPhone 18 Pro Max triggers shipping restrictions due to large battery
The iPhone 18 Pro Max has a battery capacity exceeding 20Wh, triggering strict transport regulations. To comply, Apple implemented a 'Prepare to Ship' feature in iOS 27, which drains the battery to a specific state before shipping. This software workaround is not required for other iPhone 18 Pro models, which support fast charging. The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max feature the new A20 Pro chip, improved cooling, longer battery life, and upgraded cameras.
Why it matters
The large battery capacity of the iPhone 18 Pro Max has led to shipping restrictions due to international regulations. Apple has found a software solution to this problem, allowing the company to ship the device while complying with regulations. The iPhone 18 Pro Max is one of the latest flagship devices from Apple, featuring several upgrades over its predecessors.
What is confirmed
- The iPhone 18 Pro Max has a battery capacity exceeding 20Wh.
- Apple implemented a 'Prepare to Ship' feature in iOS 27 to comply with shipping regulations for the iPhone 18 Pro Max.
- The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max feature the new A20 Pro chip, improved cooling, longer battery life, and upgraded cameras.
Still unconfirmed
- iOS 27 introduces major Apple Intelligence upgrades, changes to Siri, and improvements across core iPhone apps.
What to watch next
- Further updates on iOS 27 compatibility and user experiences
- Details on the iPhone 18 Pro Max's battery life and performance
- Apple's plans to address shipping restrictions for future devices
confidence 85%Sources used for this update (13)
- www.macworld.com — iPhone 18 Pro & Max Guide: Everything you need to know about the new iPhones
- www.macworld.com — iOS 27: Major features, compatible iPhones, updates, and more
- www.smartprix.com — Vivo X500 Pro Max vs. Apple iPhone 18 Pro Max: Two Different Takes on “Pro Max” Phones, Powered by 2nm Chips
- www.appleheadlines.com — iOS 27 Battery Drain: Real Cause (Not a Bug) + 7 Verified Fixes
- discussions.apple.com — IOS 27 battery drain issue - Apple Community
- www.webnewswire.com — Here’s how Apple got around shipping restrictions for the ...
- tidbits.com — iPhone 18 Pro Max’s Big Battery Triggers New Shipping ...
- www.archyde.com — Apple to fix iPhone 18 Pro Face ID bug - Archyde
- rapidrepair.in — iPhone 18 Pro & Pro Max: Price, Specs, Camera & Battery ...
- 9to5mac.com — Apple releases iOS 27.0.1 for iPhone, here’s what’s new
- support.apple.com — About iOS 27 Updates - Apple Support
- tech.yahoo.com — iPhone 18 Pro Performance & Battery TESTED: The A20 Pro Is ...
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Apple uses iOS 27 feature to bypass iPhone 18 Pro Max battery shipping limits
Apple implemented a Prepare to Ship feature in iOS 27 to avoid shipping restrictions affecting the iPhone 18 Pro Max. This software workaround is necessary because the device battery capacity exceeds 20Wh, a threshold that triggers strict transport regulations. The feature drains the battery to a specific state before the phone leaves the factory. While other iPhone 18 Pro models support fast charging, only the Pro Max requires this specific pre-shipping process to remain compliant with battery size limits.
Why it matters
Battery shipping regulations often restrict the transport of high-capacity cells to prevent safety risks. By using firmware to manage the charge level, Apple can move larger batteries through logistics networks without violating these rules. This allows the Pro Max to offer higher capacity than its smaller counterparts.
What is confirmed
- Apple created a Prepare to Ship feature in iOS 27 for the iPhone 18 Pro Max.
- The iPhone 18 Pro Max battery capacity exceeds 20Wh.
- Shipping restrictions for large batteries triggered the need for this software workaround.
What to watch next
- Official confirmation of the exact battery capacity in Wh from Apple
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (3)
- Tom's Guide — iPhone 18 Pro, 18 Pro Max battery size just revealed — here's the official capacity from iFixit's teardown
- GSMArena.com — Here's how Apple circumvented the battery shipping restrictions for iPhone 18 Pro Max - GSMArena.com news
- www.theverge.com — Apple’s clever software solution lets iPhone batteries skirt shipping limits
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iPhone 18 Pro Max adds Prepare to Ship feature for battery compliance
Apple introduced a Prepare to Ship feature in iOS 27 specifically for the iPhone 18 Pro Max. The device requires this battery drain process before shipping because its battery capacity exceeds 20Wh. This capacity threshold triggers additional shipping requirements that the new software feature addresses. While the iPhone 18 Pro series supports fast-charging adapters, the Pro Max model is the only one mentioned as requiring this specific pre-shipping battery state.
Why it matters
Shipping regulations often impose strict limits on the charge level of high-capacity lithium batteries to ensure safety during transit. By automating the drain process, Apple ensures the Pro Max meets these legal standards before leaving the warehouse.
What is confirmed
- The iPhone 18 Pro Max includes a Prepare to Ship feature.
- The iPhone 18 Pro Max battery exceeds 20Wh.
Still unconfirmed
- The iPhone 18 Pro Max battery was tested against the Galaxy S26 Ultra.
- iPhone 18 Pro buyers need a power adapter.
What to watch next
- Official confirmation of iOS 27 battery management specifications
- Detailed shipping regulation requirements for batteries over 20Wh
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (6)
- MacRumors — iPhone 18 Pro Max Requires 'Prepare to Ship' Battery Drain Before Shipping
- Gizmodo — iPhone 18 Pro Buyers Need a Power Adapter, and Apple’s 20W USB-C Charger Is a Record-Low Steal on Amazon
- 9to5Mac — iPhone 18 Pro Max’s battery is so big Apple had to add this new feature to iOS 27
- bgr.com — 4 Of The Best 60W Fast-Charging Adapters For The iPhone 18 Pro Series
- PhoneArena — I tested the iPhone 18 Pro Max battery against the Galaxy S26 Ultra, and I did not expect this
- www.theapplepost.com — iPhone 18 Pro Max adds new ‘Prepare to Ship’ feature because its battery is so large
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