Apple’s flagship smartphone leads a 32-device endurance assessment, matching the iPhone Duo with a 99% battery score in mixed-use testing.

Apple’s flagship iPhone 18 Pro Max has secured the top position in a battery endurance test, outperforming 31 other popular smartphones in a three-phase assessment.

The tests evaluated real-world battery performance under demanding daily use, including continuous video streaming, social media browsing, gaming and phone calls. The results highlight the battery performance of Apple’s latest smartphone range.

According to the testing protocol, 32 devices were assessed across two main stages lasting almost four hours. The first stage measured battery consumption during three hours of Wi-Fi video streaming at maximum screen brightness.

In the second stage, testers calculated the average remaining battery percentage after 45 minutes of mixed activities. These included browsing social media, playing games, watching videos and making phone calls.

The iPhone 18 Pro Max and Apple’s latest foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo, led the mixed-use assessment, with both devices retaining 99% battery capacity.

Google’s Pixel 11 Pro XL followed with 97%, placing it among the strongest performers in the test.

Meanwhile, the regular iPhone 18 Pro delivered the best result in the continuous video streaming assessment, retaining 94% of its battery after three hours of uninterrupted playback.

The iPhone 18 Pro Max’s performance is attributed to a combination of hardware and software improvements. Its larger battery capacity, the power efficiency of Apple’s A20 Pro chip and battery optimisations in iOS are considered important factors behind its endurance.

Despite matching the Pro Max in mixed-use testing, the iPhone Duo recorded only a modest advantage over more affordable alternatives, including the iPhone 17e and Motorola Razr Ultra.

The assessment also highlighted the iPhone 17 and Motorola’s mid-range Edge series as suitable alternatives for consumers seeking reliable daily battery performance without paying flagship prices.

The results underline the importance of combining efficient processors, battery capacity and software optimisation as smartphone manufacturers continue introducing advanced displays and more powerful hardware.