iPhone 17 Pro Max leak points to lighter frame & bigger battery

Apple’s new frame design, battery layout, and component arrangement for the iPhone 17 Pro Max may have just been leaked.

Apple is reportedly planning to switch back to aluminum for its Pro-series frame. The change will replace the titanium used in recent models.

The iPhone 17 Pro lineup is expected to feature a partial aluminum-glass back design. While it may reduce weight and improve heat dissipation, it will be less scratch-resistant than titanium.

The leaked image also shows a larger internal compartment for the battery. Sources claim the iPhone 17 Pro Max model could have a capacity exceeding 5,000 mAh. The leaker — yeux1122 — has a slightly better than average track record, with a mix of accurate leaks and notable misses.

A bigger battery would be an increase from the current iPhone 16 Pro Max. A slightly thicker chassis might allow for this increase, and Apple is rumored to include a vapor-chamber cooling system for better heat management.

Camera, MagSafe, and layout changes

The MagSafe coil in the image sits in a different position compared to recent models. The substrate design, which supports the main electronics, also appears to have been reworked.

Leaked iPhone 17 Pro Max. Image credit: yeux1122

These changes suggest a broader reconfiguration of the internal layout to support new hardware and thermal improvements.

It’s expected to feature a 48-megapixel telephoto lens with up to 8x optical zoom. Reports also mention a moving lens system that might switch between 5x and 8x zoom.

Other expected upgrades and launch timing

The iPhone 17 Pro Max is anticipated to feature an A19 Pro chip manufactured on TSMC’s 3-nanometer process. It will likely come with 12 GB of RAM, Wi-Fi 7, and support for 25-watt wireless charging.

The front camera might be enhanced to 24 megapixels, and Apple may introduce new finish options. These options could include a copper-like color and dark blue.

Apple is expected to announce the iPhone 17 lineup on September 9, 2025. That rumor is likely given historical data of Apple events. The IPhone 17 Pro Max joining the iPhone 17 Air and iPhone 17 Pro. Shipping is likely to begin later that month.

Leaked iPhone 17 Pro Max. Image credit: yeux1122

An aluminum frame could make the iPhone 17 Pro Max lighter and cooler under load but may not match titanium’s scratch resistance. A battery capacity over 5,000 mAh would be the largest in any iPhone to date, promising longer runtime.

The moving lens telephoto system would be a substantial upgrade for mobile photography. The internal redesign could also lead to better performance, faster charging, and improved wireless reliability.