iPhone 15 Pro Max – Apple's big Pro did almost everything right in our test

The iPhone 15 Pro Max continues to rely on a 6.7-inch display but this time, it features thinner bezels and a better display-to-surface ratio. In addition, the smartphone is now less wide and lighter, meaning it sits more comfortably in your hand despite its large size.

Its new A17 Pro SoC offers even more performance - but this can't be seen in all areas. In the benchmarks, its OpenGL performance stagnates, as Apple almost entirely relies on its own Metal API. This isn't the end of the world, as we noted a big performance boost that allows you to play console remakes on your smartphone, and you can run the hardware-hungry Genshin Impact at 120 FPS. Its cooling, however, could be better.

The phone's USB-C port may have been a legal requirement, but Apple has implemented this change well. It features a fast USB 3.2 (Gen 2) standard and it also allows you to output picture in Ultra HD. External storage devices can make use of almost every data system - this is exemplary. The phone also has access to enough power to run them. If anything, it is a little annoying that Apple doesn't yet offer a desktop mode.

The iPhone's triple-camera setup lets you take high-resolution photos and has a great 5x optical zoom - plus, it features an OIS with 3D sensor shift for the first time ever. Adding to this is the 12-MPix sensor for ultra-wide angle shots - it is now a little outdated and screams for an update on next year's iPhone 16 Pro Max.

The display itself can get super bright and boasts high color accuracy - however, its OLED flickering isn't yet mitigated in any way. Apple could do with taking a leaf out of Honor's book, as its high-frequency PWM dimming solution is much easier on the eye. 

For years, Apple has neglected its Bluetooth codecs. The manufacturer stubbornly sticks to AAC, which will only disappoint fans of high-res audio. It is high time for a more modern solution.

The iPhone 15 Pro Max can be purchased directly from Apple.