Five key differences between Apple’s iPhone Ultra and iPhone 18 Pro Max revealed.

This September, Apple is expected to launch a brand new flagship phone. Previously known as the iPhone Fold, it is now widely believed to be named the iPhone Ultra, becoming Apple’s most expensive model ever.

However, its high price does not mean it is the best choice, as the iPhone 18 Pro Max, released at the same time, also has many highlights.

Here are the five key differences between the two phones that we know so far.

In terms of form factor, the iPhone Ultra will be Apple’s first foldable screen device, adopting a design similar to the Huawei Pura X Max. When unfolded, it will provide an internal screen similar in size to the iPad mini to enhance productivity and media consumption experiences.

Apple is reportedly going to adapt to this in iOS 27, introducing an iPad-like app layout and multitasking split-screen functionality, features that will be exclusive to the iPhone Ultra.

The iPhone 18 Pro Max continues the tradition, featuring a 6.8-inch screen and providing the classic iPhone experience.

In terms of camera performance, the iPhone 18 Pro Max is expected to continue with the triple 48-megapixel lens configuration of its predecessor, and may also add a variable aperture, allowing users to adjust the amount of light entering the camera and improve shooting flexibility.

The leaked design drawings show that the iPhone Ultra will only be equipped with a dual rear camera and will lack a telephoto lens. Its telephoto capabilities will be significantly weaker than the Pro Max, and its overall photography performance may be close to that of the regular non-Pro iPhone.

Regarding battery life, foldable phones have often suffered from poor battery performance due to their large screen size and limited internal space. It is predicted that the iPhone Ultra’s battery capacity will be between 5000 and 5500 mAh.

The iPhone 18 Pro Max is known for its battery life; the previous generation model lasted nearly 18 hours in tests, thanks to its excellent 4823 mAh battery.

Rumors suggest that the iPhone 18 Pro Max will be equipped with a 5425 mAh battery (5235 mAh for the physical SIM card version).

Regarding unlocking methods, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo believes that due to the significant challenges in integrating Face ID technology into the slim body of a foldable screen, the iPhone Ultra may revert to Touch ID fingerprint recognition.

The iPhone 18 Pro Max will continue to use Face ID facial recognition, which has been continuously optimized since the iPhone X.

In terms of price, the iPhone 18 Pro Max is expected to start at $1,399, $200 more than the previous generation.

In contrast, the iPhone Ultra could start at as much as $2,500, even $500 more expensive than the Samsung Z Fold7.

Apart from the differences mentioned above, the two phones are expected to be similar in performance, and the iPhone Ultra may be equipped with the same cooling system as the regular model.

We believe the final choice depends on user preferences: for those prioritizing photography and value for money, the iPhone 18 Pro Max may be more suitable; for those seeking innovation and an experience that combines the iPad mini and iPhone into one, and willing to pay a premium for early adopters, Apple’s first foldable phone may be worth considering.