It’s only February, and the iPhone 17 Pro Max is already generating significant buzz. While Apple has historically favored incremental improvements, recent leaks suggest that the iPhone 17 Pro lineup may finally see a major redesign.
For the Pro Max variant, Apple needs to go beyond just a bigger screen and battery—it must push boundaries in camera technology, battery life, software experience, and design. Competing brands like Samsung and Vivo have already raised the bar with their flagship Ultra models, and Apple should follow suit.
Here are the four key upgrades that could make the iPhone 17 Pro Max the ultimate flagship of 2025.
1. A More Advanced Telephoto Camera System
While Apple’s Fusion Camera technology does a great job of improving zoom quality, a true optical solution would be a game-changer. Competing flagships like the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra and Vivo X200 Pro already feature multiple dedicated telephoto lenses, allowing for seamless optical zoom without digital interpolation.
What Apple Should Improve:
Add a second telephoto lens (3x and 5x) for smoother zoom transitions.
Reduce noise in low-light conditions for sharper, more detailed night portraits.
Improve image processing for enhanced clarity at long-range zoom levels.
With a dual telephoto setup, the iPhone 17 Pro Max could finally rival Samsung and Vivo in zoom capabilities and take smartphone photography to the next level.
2. A Bigger Battery for Even Longer Endurance
Apple has made significant strides in battery efficiency, and the iPhone 16 Pro Max already delivers two-day battery life for most users. However, at just 4,685mAh, there’s still room for improvement.
What Apple Should Do:
Increase battery capacity to 5,500mAh to match leading Android flagships.
Introduce faster wired and wireless charging for quick top-ups.
Optimize iOS power management to extend screen-on time without affecting performance.
Given the larger form factor of the Pro Max, Apple has no excuse not to pack in a bigger battery. Combined with Apple’s efficient A-series chipset, this could make the iPhone 17 Pro Max the ultimate battery champion.
3. More Software Features for the Large Display
The 6.9-inch Pro Max display is one of the best in the industry, but beyond media consumption, it doesn’t offer a distinct software experience compared to the smaller Pro model. Samsung’s Ultra phones, on the other hand, provide advanced multitasking features that take advantage of the larger screen real estate.
What Apple Should Introduce:
Split-screen multitasking to run two apps side by side.
Interactive widgets that adapt dynamically based on usage.
Apple Pencil support for productivity and creative users.
The Pro Max should offer more than just a bigger iPhone—it should introduce exclusive software enhancements that justify its size and premium price tag.
4. A Fresh, New Design That Stands Out
Since the iPhone 12 Pro, Apple’s Pro models have largely maintained the same design, with flat edges, a symmetrical camera layout, and minimal exterior changes. While this premium design language remains attractive, it’s beginning to feel outdated.
What Apple Might Change (Based on Leaks):
A Google Pixel 9-style camera visor, extending across the back for a bold new look.
Refined materials for better durability and grip.
Thinner bezels and a reduced Dynamic Island for a more immersive display.
A design refresh would breathe new life into the iPhone 17 Pro Max, giving it a distinctive and modern look that differentiates it from its predecessors.
Final Thoughts: The iPhone 17 Pro Max Needs More Than Just Incremental Upgrades
The iPhone 17 Pro Max has the potential to be the best smartphone of 2025, but Apple must push beyond minor updates.
A better telephoto system would put it on par with Samsung and Vivo.
A larger battery would give it unmatched endurance.
Smarter software features would enhance the big-screen experience.
A fresh design would make it stand out in a crowded market.
If Apple delivers on these key upgrades, the iPhone 17 Pro Max could dominate the flagship smartphone space and set a new standard for innovation.
iPhone 17 Pro Max: 4 Upgrades That Could Make It the ‘Phone of the Year’
