Modded iPhone 16 Pro Max Outperforms Newer Model’s Battery Capacity
Apple’s flagship iPhones have seen gradual improvements in battery capacity over recent years, with the iPhone 17 Pro Max marking a milestone by being the first to break the 5,000mAh barrier, featuring a 5,088mAh cell. However, a recent modification demonstrated by YouTuber DirectorFeng reveals that the iPhone 16 Pro Max can be upgraded to house an even larger battery, reaching 5,142mAh, which is nearly 10% more than its original 4,685mAh capacity and surpasses the iPhone 17 Pro Max’s battery size.
Details of the Battery Upgrade and Testing
The upgrade involves replacing the original battery with a third-party 5,142mAh cell manufactured by SEFU, a company specialising in lithium-ion batteries for various devices including iPhones. DirectorFeng meticulously showcased the process, noting that the new battery adds negligible weight and fits perfectly within the iPhone 16 Pro Max chassis, as the dimensions closely match the original unit. After installation, the YouTuber conducted thorough charging and discharging tests across three cycles to verify the actual capacity of the new battery, confirming that the device’s battery health was restored to 100% post-modification.
While the modded iPhone 16 Pro Max’s performance against the iPhone 17 Pro Max in real-world battery drain tests remains unreported, the upgrade clearly demonstrates the potential for increased runtime on older devices through hardware modifications. DirectorFeng has indicated plans to carry out long-term testing on the modified handset to provide further insights.
Context and Implications for Apple’s Battery Strategy
This battery upgrade highlights the possibilities for extending the life and performance of existing iPhones through third-party modifications, although such procedures require technical skill and access to specialised parts. Apple itself continues to push battery improvements, with reports suggesting that the upcoming iPhone Fold may feature a battery capacity between 5,400mAh and 5,800mAh, the largest ever in an iPhone. Additionally, the iPhone 18 Pro Max is rumoured to have increased thickness, possibly to accommodate a larger battery than the current iPhone 17 Pro Max.
Apple’s focus on efficiency is evident when comparing battery endurance with competitors. For instance, despite Xiaomi’s 17 Pro Max boasting a massive 7,500mAh battery, it only marginally outlasts the iPhone 17 Pro Max in battery drain tests, underscoring Apple’s optimisation efforts.
What to Expect Going Forward
This demonstration serves as an interesting case study for enthusiasts looking to boost their older iPhone’s battery life beyond factory specifications. However, for most users, upcoming Apple models with larger batteries and improved efficiency will likely negate the need for such modifications. It will be worth watching how Apple continues to innovate in battery technology and whether these enhancements translate into significantly longer real-world usage in future releases.