Apple’s iPhone 18 Pro Max Introduces Battery Prep Step for Shipping
Because the iPhone 18 Pro Max has a single-cell battery over 20Wh, Apple requires a firmware-based “Prepare to Ship” step to discharge the battery below 20Wh and cap charging when shipping the device for repair, trade-in, or other services. New, unactivated units are already under the limit and don’t need this, while the process can make the device warmer. Once completed, a “Ready to Ship” status appears, and there’s an undo option (potentially with a 14‑day waiting period depending on the reason). This measure is specific to this model to meet shipping rules.