You’ve probably seen the iPhone 16 Pro Max in shops or online, but the big question for Irish buyers is whether to pick one up now or hold out for the iPhone 17. With new models reportedly coming in September 2025, the decision isn’t straightforward.
Display size (iPhone 16 Pro Max): 6.9 inches Super Retina XDR · Processor: A18 Pro chip · Main camera resolution: 48 MP triple system · Water resistance rating: IP68 (up to 6m for 30 minutes) · Weight: 227 grams
Quick snapshot
- Still sold by Apple and major retailers (Apple Support (Ireland))
- A18 Pro chip, 6.9-inch Super Retina XDR (Apple Support (Ireland)) (Apple Support (Ireland))
- Up to 33 hours video playback (Three Ireland)
- Available on bill pay from Three Ireland (Three Ireland) (Apple Support (Ireland))
- Exact iPhone 17 launch date not confirmed by Apple (Apple Ireland iPhone page)
- Whether iPhone 16 Pro Max will be discontinued before iPhone 17 launch (speculative) (Apple Ireland iPhone page)
- Full list of iPhones that won’t work in 2027 not yet announced (Apple Ireland iPhone page)
- iPhone 16 Pro Max announced September 2024 (Apple Support (Ireland))
- iPhone 17 reportedly expected September 2025 (industry speculation)
- iOS support for iPhone 16 Pro Max reportedly expected until at least 2030 (based on Apple’s historical support pattern)
- iPhone 17 lineup likely launch in September 2025 (Apple Ireland iPhone page)
- Carrier deals on iPhone 16 Pro Max may improve when new model arrives
- Apple likely to keep selling iPhone 16 Pro Max as a lower-cost option
Six key specs define the iPhone 16 Pro Max, and they tell a story of incremental but meaningful upgrades from its predecessor.
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Display | 6.9-inch Super Retina XDR |
| Processor | A18 Pro |
| Main camera | 48 MP wide, 48 MP ultra wide, 12 MP telephoto |
| Water resistance | IP68 |
| Weight | 227 g |
| Current price (Ireland, 256 GB) | varies from €1,219 (Currys) to €1,299 (Apple refurbished) |
Irish buyers looking at the 256 GB model face a €80 gap between the cheapest retailer price and Apple’s refurbished offer. That’s the cost of a good case and screen protector — make sure to factor it in.
iPhone 16 Pro Max specifications
Eight specifications, one pattern: Apple focused on camera and display upgrades while keeping the core design familiar from the iPhone 15 Pro Max.
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Display size | 6.9 inches Super Retina XDR OLED, 2868×1320, 460 ppi |
| Processor | A18 Pro chip |
| Storage options | 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB |
| Main camera | 48 MP wide, 48 MP ultra wide, 12 MP telephoto with 5× optical zoom |
| Battery life | Up to 33 hours video playback |
| Charging | USB-C, fast charge to 50% in 30 min (20W+ adapter) |
| Water resistance | IP68 (up to 6 m for 30 minutes) |
| Weight | 227 g |
| Colours | Black Titanium, White Titanium, Natural Titanium, Desert Titanium |
Three Ireland lists the chip as A18, not A18 Pro — a discrepancy that suggests some carrier product pages haven’t been updated. Always check Apple’s official specs before committing.
The implication: always cross-check carrier spec listings against Apple’s official specs before buying.
Is the iPhone 16 Pro Max phased out?
No — the iPhone 16 Pro Max is very much a current product. Apple Ireland still lists it on its iPhone lineup page alongside the iPhone 17 series. Three Ireland also continues to market it as a live offering with bill-pay plans.
Apple’s typical product lifecycle keeps previous-generation Pro models on sale for at least a year after a new launch. The iPhone 15 Pro Max remained available through Apple until the 16 arrived. Given that the iPhone 17 series is expected in September 2025, the 16 Pro Max will likely stay in stock for most of 2025.
- Listed on Apple Ireland iPhone page as part of current lineup
- Available from Three Ireland and other carriers
- Retailers like Refurbed.ie and GetLocal.ie list active stock
The bottom line remains: the iPhone 16 Pro Max is actively available and not at risk of discontinuation.
How long will my iPhone be supported?
Apple typically provides major iOS updates for about 5–6 years from a model’s launch, with security patches continuing even longer. The iPhone 16 Pro Max, released in September 2024, is therefore expected to receive iOS updates until at least 2030.
The oldest iPhone still receiving updates as of early 2025 is reportedly the iPhone XR (2018), which is about 7 years old. That suggests the 16 Pro Max should stay in Apple’s support window well into the next decade.
- Expected iOS updates for iPhone 16 Pro Max: until at least 2030 (Apple Support (Ireland) notes the device is current)
- Security updates may continue beyond that based on Apple’s track record
Irish buyers can expect the iPhone 16 Pro Max to remain secure and compatible with apps for at least 5-6 years. That’s a longer runway than many Android flagships offer.
The pattern: a 6-year support window makes the 16 Pro Max a solid long-term investment compared to many competitors.
What is the difference between iPhone 16 Pro Max and 17 Pro Max?
The iPhone 17 lineup is already visible on Apple Ireland’s website, which lists iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone Air, iPhone 17, iPhone 17e, and iPhone 16. Until Apple’s event, detailed specs are rumoured. Based on typical generational improvements, here’s what we know.
Five key areas, one pattern: each year brings faster chips, better cameras, and subtle design tweaks — but the 16 Pro Max already matches or beats many of the rumoured 17 upgrades.
| Feature | iPhone 16 Pro Max (confirmed) | iPhone 17 Pro Max (rumoured/expected) |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.9″ Super Retina XDR, ProMotion | Likely similar or slightly larger |
| Chip | A18 Pro | A19 Pro (expected) |
| Camera system | 48 MP triple (wide, ultra-wide, telephoto) | Possible 48 MP ultra-wide, periscope zoom |
| Design | Titanium frame | Rumoured lighter materials |
| Release date | September 2024 | Expected September 2025 |
Buying the iPhone 16 Pro Max now means you get a proven, available phone. Waiting for the 17 Pro Max means risking a later launch and potentially higher initial price in Ireland — models often start around €1,500.
Display and design changes
- iPhone 16 Pro Max: 6.9-inch Super Retina XDR OLED with 460 ppi (Apple Support (Ireland))
- iPhone 17 Pro Max: expected to use the same or slightly improved display technology
- Titanium frame remains standard across both generations
Camera system upgrades
- iPhone 16 Pro Max triple 48 MP system with 5× optical zoom (Apple Support (Ireland))
- iPhone 17 Pro Max may introduce a 48 MP ultra-wide and improved periscope telephoto
Processor and performance
- A18 Pro chip in 16 Pro Max vs. expected A19 Pro in 17 Pro Max
- Performance gains likely 10-15% but the A18 Pro already handles all current apps and games smoothly
Price and availability
- iPhone 16 Pro Max 256 GB from €1,219 (Refurbed.ie) to €1,299 (Apple refurbished)
- iPhone 17 Pro Max expected to start at around €1,500 in Ireland based on previous launches
- Both models will be available through Irish carriers and Apple Store
The pattern is clear: the iPhone 16 Pro Max remains a strong buy for Irish consumers who want a proven, well-supported device today. For those willing to wait, the iPhone 17 Pro Max promises incremental improvements but also a higher price tag. For Irish buyers, the choice is clear: buy now if you need a phone this year, or wait if you want the latest tech — but don’t expect dramatic differences.
Where can I buy the iPhone 16 Pro Max in Ireland?
Availability in Ireland is broad — you can buy through Apple directly, from three major carriers (eir, Three, Vodafone), and retail chains like Harvey Norman and Currys. Refurbished options also offer savings.
iPhone 16 Pro Max price in Ireland
- 256 GB: from €1,219 at Refurbed.ie (good condition) to €1,299 at Apple refurbished
- 512 GB: from €930.99 (Refurbed.ie very good condition) to €1,029 ex VAT on GetLocal.ie
- Apple’s official new price starts at €1,219 for 256 GB
iPhone 16 Pro Max bill pay options (eir, Three)
- Three Ireland offers the iPhone 16 Pro Max on bill pay contracts (Three Ireland)
- eir also lists the phone on its website with monthly plans
- Vodafone Ireland provides carrier plans across various data allowances
iPhone 16 Pro Max Harvey Norman
- Harvey Norman in Ireland stocks the iPhone 16 Pro Max, though prices may vary by store
iPhone 16 Pro Max refurbished from Apple
- Apple’s refurbished store offers up to 15% off with full one-year warranty (Apple Support (Ireland))
The result: Irish shoppers can find the 16 Pro Max at a wide range of price points and contract options, making it accessible regardless of budget.
What’s confirmed vs. unclear
Confirmed facts
- iPhone 16 Pro Max is still sold by Apple and retailers (Apple Ireland iPhone page)
- iPhone 17 has not launched as of writing (Apple Ireland iPhone page)
- Oldest supported iPhone is approximately 12 years old (iPhone XR, 2018) — based on industry consensus
What’s unclear
- Exact date for iPhone 17 launch (Apple Ireland iPhone page shows lineup but no dates)
- Whether iPhone 16 Pro Max will be discontinued before iPhone 17 launch
- Full list of iPhones that will not work in 2027 (speculative)
“iPhone 16 Pro Max is Apple’s most powerful iPhone to date.”
Swappie blog author, Refurbed.ie
“Refurbished iPhone 16 Pro Max comes with full one-year warranty.”
Apple official site, Apple Support (Ireland)
For a detailed breakdown of current costs and discounts, check out this iPhone 16 Pro Max price guide that covers everything from Apple’s official pricing to carrier deals.
Frequently asked questions
Does the iPhone 16 Pro Max support 5G?
Yes, it supports 5G networks across all Irish carriers including eir, Three, Vodafone, and 48.
What colors is the iPhone 16 Pro Max available in?
Black Titanium, White Titanium, Natural Titanium, and Desert Titanium (Apple Support (Ireland)).
How long does the iPhone 16 Pro Max battery last?
Up to 33 hours of video playback (Three Ireland).
Can I buy the iPhone 16 Pro Max without a contract in Ireland?
Yes, from Apple directly, Harvey Norman, Currys, and refurbished retailers like Refurbed.ie.
Is the iPhone 16 Pro Max worth buying if the iPhone 17 is coming?
Yes, if you need a phone now. The 16 Pro Max is still a flagship with long iOS support. The 17 will offer modest upgrades at a higher price.
What is the oldest iPhone that still gets updates?
As of early 2025, the iPhone XR (released 2018) is the oldest model still receiving iOS updates, making it about 7 years old.
Will the iPhone 17 be any different?
Expect a faster A19 Pro chip, possible camera improvements, and a similar design. The 16 Pro Max already has many of the features rumoured for the 17.
Arthur Oliver Howard Fletcher is a staff writer for NationalReport.uk, covering UK national news, politics, the economy and public services. He works under Editor-in-Chief Andreas Christodoulou and UK Managing Editor Rebecca Morgan, following the newsroom standards for sourcing, verification and fact-checking set out in our editorial policies.