‘Prepare to Ship’ Is a Clever Software Solution That Allows iPhone 18 Pro Max to Ship With a Battery That Would Otherwise Exceed International Shipping Regulations

"Prepare to Ship" is a clever software solution designed to allow the iPhone 18 Pro Max to ship with a battery that would otherwise exceed international shipping regulations. The iPhone 18 Pro Max boasts an impressive increase in battery life, thanks to a battery capacity over 20 watt-hours (Wh). However, devices with a single-cell battery over 20 Wh face additional shipping requirements in most countries and regions.

To tackle this issue, the iPhone 18 Pro Max employs an innovative battery-firmware solution. This ingenious system limits the battery capacity to below 20 Wh throughout its manufacturing and transport process from the factory. Once activated, the limit is lifted, and the battery regains its full charging capacity. After activation, if an iPhone 18 Pro Max needs to be shipped for repair, trade-in, return, or as a gift, the "Prepare to Ship" feature in Settings comes into play.

This feature discharges the battery to below 20 Wh and sets a charge limit, ensuring the iPhone remains compliant with shipping regulations.

This process can be undone, and the charge limit can be reset after shipping. The iPhone 18 Pro Max's battery remains safe, including for shipping and air travel. This unique process is solely intended to meet shipping requirements and is not necessary for travel or any other iPhone model.