Apple's upcoming iPhone 18 Pro Max will maintain the same thickness as its predecessor at 8.75mm, according to Weibo leaker Ice Universe. This measurement dashes hopes for a slimmer form factor, especially since it's actually thicker than the iPhone 16 Pro Max's 8.25mm dimension. The consistent thickness suggests Apple has prioritized other features for the flagship device.

Ice Universe previously claimed the model would measure 8.8mm in March, but now confirms the 8.75mm measurement represents Apple's current direction for the 2026 iPhone. This leaker has a history of accurately sharing iPhone dimensions ahead of releases, lending credibility to the report despite Apple's usual secrecy surrounding product development.

Apple's attention reportedly shifted toward developing the iPhone Ultra—the company's first foldable device. This strategic focus explains the iPhone 18 Pro Max's unchanged dimensions, as Apple dedicates resources to entering a new product category with significant market implications. The thickness decision reflects Apple's calculated approach to innovation in an increasingly competitive smartphone landscape where design trade-offs become necessary.