September 16, 2026, 3:43 pm | Read time: 3 minutes
The foldable iPhone Duo has caught the attention of many observers. However, for many interested parties, the classic Pro models are likely to be more exciting. With the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, Apple is launching two new high-end smartphones that aim to improve especially in camera, battery, and performance. Initial test results show one area where the larger model significantly stands out from its predecessors.
Two Sizes and New Colors
Apple is once again offering the iPhone 18 Pro in two variants. The iPhone 18 Pro has a 6.3-inch display, while the iPhone 18 Pro Max comes in at 6.9 inches. The casing still relies on the aluminum design of the previous generation. However, new color options include burgundy, black, light blue, and silver.
There are also differences in weight. The larger model, in particular, has gained weight and now tips the scales at 249 grams. This makes the iPhone 18 Pro Max 18 grams heavier than its predecessor.
Variable Aperture Expands the Camera
Apple has not changed the basic camera setup. Ultra-wide-angle camera, main camera, and optical telephoto lens with 48-megapixel sensors are still on board. The image quality remains high, both for regular shots and photos in low light or with zoom.
The most important innovation is the variable aperture of the main camera. It allows for targeted changes to depth of field. A lower aperture number increases the aperture size, causing distant areas to blur more. A higher aperture number results in more of the subject being sharply depicted.
Additionally, automatic focus tracking helps keep a selected subject sharp even with slight camera movements. New manual control options within the camera app allow users to adjust the shutter speed, influencing motion sharpness. Also new is the ability to choose which camera to use for close-up shots.
Larger Batteries Ensure New Peak Runtime
Apple has equipped both Pro models with larger batteries. The increase is particularly noticeable in the iPhone 18 Pro Max. In previous measurements, no iPhone achieved a longer runtime. Although further measurements are still pending, a new peak value is already emerging.
Charging speed also increases. With powerful USB-C power adapters, the iPhone 18 Pro reached a battery level of 50 percent after 15 minutes. The iPhone 18 Pro Max reached 42 percent in the same period. During charging, nearly 50 watts flowed into the smartphone. Apple now offers a “40 Watt Dynamic Power” adapter in Germany, which can deliver up to 60 watts temporarily.
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More Power with the A20 Pro
For the first time, the new A20 Pro is working inside. Especially in graphics tasks and applications related to artificial intelligence, the chip showed a significant performance boost in benchmark tests.
However, there is a limitation concerning Siri AI. The function is currently not available in Germany. Additionally, Siri AI does not yet support the German language and cannot be used within the EU.
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Prices of the New Pro Models
Prices are rising compared to the previous generation. The base models are 150 euros more expensive. The iPhone 18 Pro starts at 1,449 euros with 256 gigabytes of storage. The iPhone 18 Pro Max costs at least 1,599 euros.
Additionally, several storage options are available. The versions with 512 gigabytes cost 1,699 and 1,849 euros, respectively. At the top is the iPhone 18 Pro Max with 2 terabytes of storage for 3,099 euros.