The thicker body of the iPhone 17 Pro Max, measuring 8.725mm compared to the 8.25mm of its predecessor, is primarily intended to accommodate a larger battery or possibly a redesigned camera system[1][4]. This increase in thickness could potentially enhance the phone's durability due to several factors:
1. Structural Integrity: A thicker design might provide additional structural support, making the phone more robust against external impacts. However, this benefit is speculative and depends on how the internal components are arranged and reinforced.
2. Battery Protection: If the increased thickness is indeed for a larger battery, it might also offer better protection for the battery itself. A larger battery could be better shielded from external shocks, potentially improving overall durability.
3. Scratch Resistance: While the thickness itself does not directly impact scratch resistance, the iPhone 17 series is rumored to feature a new scratch-resistant display technology. This includes an anti-reflective layer that is more resistant to scratches than previous models[2][5]. Although this technology is not directly related to the phone's thickness, it will contribute to the overall durability of the device.
4. Camera Design: If the thickness is partly due to a new camera design, such as a large rectangular module, it might affect how the phone withstands scratches or impacts on the camera area. However, this aspect is more about design aesthetics and functionality rather than durability.
In summary, the thicker body of the iPhone 17 Pro Max is primarily aimed at enhancing battery life or camera capabilities rather than directly improving durability or scratch resistance. The actual durability benefits will depend on how well Apple integrates these changes with other design elements, such as the new scratch-resistant display technology.
Citations:
[1] https://www.macrumors.com/2025/03/07/iphone-17-pro-max-thicker-larger-battery/
[2] https://www.macrumors.com/2024/03/19/iphone-17-anti-reflective-display/
[3] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=edhixC3tDm4
[4] https://www.yahoo.com/tech/iphone-17-pro-max-rumor-175719296.html
[5] https://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/apple-iphone-17-display-upgrade-anti-reflective-scratch-resistant-news/
[6] https://www.macrumors.com/2024/07/22/iphone-17-5-major-features/
[7] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U1AdZB0yVl8
[8] https://www.phonearena.com/news/iphone-17-major-upgrade-scratch-resistant-display_id156445
[9] https://www.reddit.com/r/apple/comments/1j5lw7e/iphone_17_pro_max_said_to_be_thicker_to/
[10] https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidphelan/2025/03/11/apple-iphone-17-pro-max-design-new-leak-hints-at-major-upgrade/