Overview
- Photographs and a prior regulatory listing that surfaced on Aug. 10–11 show a 5,391 mAh cell said to be for China models and a reported roughly 5,567 mAh cell for eSIM variants sold in the U.S.
- The 5,391 mAh figure matches an earlier regulatory entry, a detail multiple outlets cite as independent corroboration of the photographic leaks.
- Reporters and analysts explain the regional split by noting that eSIM-only phones do not need a physical SIM tray so manufacturers can fit a slightly larger battery into the same chassis.
- A TrendForce analysis cited by several outlets estimates sharply higher bills of materials and says the iPhone 18 Pro will likely start with 256GB of storage, making modest retail price increases more likely.
- All details remain unconfirmed by Apple and outlets warn images and database entries can be forged, so final verification is expected at Apple’s September product announcement.