With Apple’s September 2025 event just weeks away, a new set of leaked images has revealed some of the biggest hidden changes coming to the iPhone 17 Pro Max.
The leak, shared by well-known source yuex1122, doesn’t shock so much as it confirms earlier rumors – and the details suggest Apple is making deeper structural changes than first assumed.
The standout shift is the introduction of a metal-covered battery, replacing the black foil wrap used in earlier Pro Max models. Apple first tested this design in the iPhone 16 Pro, but the Pro Max’s larger body and more demanding hardware make improved thermal management essential. By boosting heat dissipation, Apple ensures the phone can handle power-hungry features without overheating – a practical, not cosmetic, upgrade.
Interestingly, the leaked photos also show two distinct battery shapes. One is L-shaped, designed for versions with a physical SIM tray, while the other is rectangular, intended for eSIM-only models. This points to Apple customizing internal layouts depending on the region – with U.S. buyers likely getting the eSIM-only option.
The camera bump has also grown significantly, but it’s not just an aesthetic choice. Inside is reportedly Apple’s new 48MP telephoto lens with a moving element, enabling 5x to 8x optical zoom. This marks one of the most ambitious upgrades yet for iPhone photography and will likely be a major selling point for the 17 Pro Max.
Looking at these details together, it’s clear that Apple is reshaping the iPhone 17 Pro Max from the inside out. The focus isn’t only on speed and flash, but on balancing power, cooling, and space efficiency to handle next-gen hardware. The phone may appear like a typical annual upgrade on the outside, but the internals tell a very different story. The full iPhone 17 lineup is set to be revealed on September 9, and all eyes will be on how these hidden changes perform in the real world.