Apple’s new iPhone 16 Pro Max has created a storm in the smartphone world, promising the most advanced performance and camera system ever seen on an iPhone. But when you look closely, not everything is as perfect as Apple’s glossy launch videos make it seem.
If you’re planning to spend over ₹1.6 lakh on this premium flagship, it’s important to know the 5 negative points of the iPhone 16 Pro Max that you should seriously consider before making your purchase.
📖 Contents
Let’s break it down — from heating issues to storage traps — everything that Apple doesn’t want you to notice.
1. Overheating Issues Still Exist Despite Titanium Body
Apple claimed that the new titanium frame and improved cooling would fix the heating problems that haunted the iPhone 15 Pro Max. Unfortunately, that’s not fully true. Many users have reported that the iPhone 16 Pro Max gets quite warm during gaming, video recording, or 4K editing sessions.
In India’s hot climate, especially in cities like Delhi or Mumbai, this heating becomes more noticeable during outdoor use. The A18 Pro chip is incredibly powerful, but when pushed, it still gets hot — and that affects battery life and comfort in hand.
2. The Price Tag Feels Unjustified for Minor Upgrades
Let’s be honest — the iPhone 16 Pro Max doesn’t feel like a massive leap from the 15 Pro Max. Yes, the chip is faster, and the camera gets a new AI touch, but in real-world use, you won’t feel a dramatic difference.
In India, the price starts around ₹1,59,900 for the base model — that’s enough to buy a high-end laptop and a solid Android flagship together! Apple fans may justify it with “ecosystem value”, but for most practical users, the price-to-performance ratio doesn’t make sense anymore.
| Variant | Storage | Price (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 16 Pro Max (Base) | 256 GB | ₹1,59,900 |
| iPhone 16 Pro Max | 512 GB | ₹1,79,900 |
| iPhone 16 Pro Max | 1 TB | ₹1,99,900 |
3. Limited Fast Charging – Still Stuck in the Past
Even in 2025, Apple hasn’t embraced real fast charging. The iPhone 16 Pro Max still maxes out at 27W wired charging, while Android flagships like the OnePlus 13 Pro and Xiaomi 15 Ultra offer up to 100W+ speeds.
You’ll need over 1 hour 45 minutes to fully charge this phone, which feels outdated in today’s world where even mid-range phones reach 100% in under 30 minutes.
For Indian users who are always on the go, this slow charging experience feels frustrating, especially considering the premium price tag.
4. AI Features Are Overhyped and Region-Locked
Apple made a big deal about its new “Apple Intelligence” features, like on-device summarisation and advanced Siri upgrades. But here’s the truth — many of these AI tools aren’t even available in India yet.
You might have seen fancy demos in Apple’s keynote, but Indian users will likely get limited access or delayed updates. Paying such a premium for half-available features makes it hard to justify this upgrade, especially when Android competitors already offer open, widely available AI tools.
READ MORE:- Xiaomi 17 Pro Max vs iPhone 17 Pro Max: Who Wins the Battle of Performance and Camera?
5. No Major Design Innovation – Same Look, New Price
Apple’s design has been steady for years, but at this point, it feels too repetitive. The iPhone 16 Pro Max appears almost same to the final two generations, with only a barely larger display and repositioned digital camera sensors.
In a international in which foldables and curved displays are becoming the norm, Apple’s design language feels secure however stale. For users who need some thing visually interesting for ₹1.6 lakh, this smartphone might also disappoint.
Real-World Verdict: Great Power, But Missing the “Wow” Factor
There’s no denying that the iPhone 16 Pro Max is a powerhouse. The A18 Pro chip is lightning-fast, and the camera continues to lead in quality. But when you look beyond raw performance, you’ll see it’s not the all-rounder many expect it to be.
If you’re already using an iPhone 15 Pro Max, upgrading makes little sense. And if you’re switching from Android, you’ll need to sacrifice charging speed, customisation, and even basic AI access for the Apple logo.
Apple may have perfected its formula — but maybe that’s the problem.
Rivals That Offer More for Less
| Phone | Key Highlight | Price (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra | 200MP Camera, 45W Charging | ₹1,49,999 |
| OnePlus 13 Pro | Snapdragon 8 Elite, 120W Charging | ₹89,999 |
| Xiaomi 15 Ultra | 1-inch Camera Sensor, Leica Lens | ₹99,999 |
These rivals offer faster charging, open AI integration, and better value, making them strong alternatives for users who want flagship power without Apple’s limitations.
READ MORE:- Vivo Premium 5G Smartphone: Why Vivo V29 Pro 5G Is a Game-Changer Under ₹13K
Final Thoughts: Think Twice Before Buying the iPhone 16 Pro Max
If brand prestige matters to you, the iPhone 16 Pro Max will never disappoint. But if you value innovation, practical features, and value for money — there are better choices out there.
Before you spend a fortune, make sure you’re not just buying the Apple badge, but real value for your hard-earned money.
