The iPhone 13 Pro Max is Apple’s flagship smartphone for 2021. As we approach the expected September release date, rumors are swirling about potential new features and design changes. One question on many users’ minds is: will the iPhone 13 Pro Max come in new colors?
iPhone 12 Pro Max colors
To speculate about possible new colors for the iPhone 13 Pro Max, let’s first take a look at the color options available for its predecessor, the iPhone 12 Pro Max:
- Graphite
- Silver
- Gold
- Pacific Blue
The iPhone 12 Pro Max represented the first major redesign for the iPhone in years. The new flat-edged industrial design harkened back to the iPhone 4 era. The available colors were also updated compared to the iPhone 11 Pro Max, with the new Pacific Blue option replacing Midnight Green.
What new colors might the iPhone 13 Pro Max offer?
So what new colors could Apple potentially add to the iPhone 13 Pro Max lineup? Here are some of the popular rumors and predictions:
- Bronze: This new coppery bronze shade has been rumored as replacing the gold option on the iPhone 13 Pro models. The bronze would provide a distinct, premium new colorway.
- Matte Black: A matte black finish would offer a more subtle, sophisticated black color compared to the glossy Graphite.
- Navy Blue: Some leakers have suggested a dark navy blue color being added, likely replacing Pacific Blue.
- Rose Gold: Rose gold was previously offered on older iPhone models, like the iPhone 8. Some hope Apple will bring back this popular pinkish hue.
- Vibrant colors: While less likely for the high-end Pro Max model, some rumors indicate vivid colors like orange, green, or red could appear on the lower-end iPhone 13.
What factors does Apple consider when choosing colors?
Apple puts a lot of thought into its iPhone color selections each year. Some of the factors they likely consider include:
- Current color trends: Apple aims to choose colors that align with current fashion and design trends, like the recent shift towards bright, bold colors.
- Material capabilities: The colors need to complement the iPhone’s glass and aluminum design and construction.
- Difficulty of production: Some colors, like soft gold or rose gold, are more challenging to accurately mass produce.
- Consumer demand: Online chatter and customer input provides insight into which shades customers are hoping for.
- Brand identity: Apple tends to favor elegant, understated colors that reinforce its brand image of sophistication and craftsmanship.
By carefully weighing factors like these, Apple strives to choose a palette that satisfies users while meeting production requirements.
Historical iPhone color changes
Looking back at past iPhone releases provides context on how dramatically Apple tends to change up colors each year. Here is a brief overview of new iPhone colors over time:
| iPhone Model | New Colors |
|---|---|
| iPhone 11 Pro | Midnight Green |
| iPhone XR | Coral, Blue, Yellow, Red |
| iPhone 8 | Gold, Rose Gold |
| iPhone 7 | Jet Black, Black |
| iPhone 6S | Rose Gold |
As you can see, Apple tends to introduce just one or two new iPhone colors per year. Dramatic shifts in the color lineup are uncommon. For the iPhone 13 Pro Max, we can reasonably expect one or two new options while keeping existing staple colors like silver, gold, and graphite.
What are the most likely new iPhone 13 Pro Max colors?
Based on all the current rumors and Apple’s past patterns, what new colors seem most probable this year? Here are my top predictions:
- Bronze: This metallic bronze shade feels very plausible as a premium option. It would replace gold, differentiate the 13 Pros, and provide a fashionable new choice.
- Matte Black: A darker black finish seems like an easy change that aligns with modern tastes for matte over glossy.
- Navy Blue: While I’m less confident in this one, a navy blue does seem possible as an update to Pacific Blue.
I view colors like red, orange, rose gold, and green as far less likely for the high-end 13 Pro Max. Apple seems more conservative with its flagship iPhone colors compared to cheaper models. But there’s always potential for a surprise!
How important are colors to iPhone users?
Colors clearly influence some iPhone buyers. But how important of a factor are colors overall when consumers choose a new iPhone model? There are a few perspectives on this:
- Colors are critical for a segment of fashion-focused users who want their iPhone to be a styling accessory.
- The average user cares more about features, but colors are still a plus and can sway decisions.
- Some (especially Pro users) care mostly about functionality and pick colors secondarily.
Surveys indicate about a third of buyers consider color very important, while the remaining two-thirds cite other factors as more critical. But color is still at least a consideration for nearly all consumers.
Will colors help drive iPhone 13 Pro Max sales?
Given that iPhone colors matter to many buyers, could new options encourage upgrades or expanded sales? There are a few factors to consider:
- New colors tend to attract media attention, which can raise awareness and buzz around the new iPhone models in general.
- Some buyers who were holding off might be tempted by a new color they love, whether bronze, matte black, or another shade.
- On the flip side, those who dislike the new colors may wait to upgrade longer.
- For most, colors are likely a secondary consideration behind features, price, and other factors.
Overall, while exciting new colors might encourage a few extra buyers, it likely won’t make a huge dent in total sales one way or the other. But new colors keep things fresh and interesting for buyers, which is valuable for Apple.
When will we know the iPhone 13 Pro Max colors for sure?
Apple never drops hints about their next iPhone colors ahead of time. We’ll have to wait for the official announcement to know with certainty.
However, leaks from Apple’s supply chain often reveal accurate details about new iPhones months in advance. As we get closer to the expected September 2021 announcement, leaked images and details regarding colors will likely emerge online.
In the weeks leading up to the announcement, some leakers may even reportedly “confirm” the new colors. But nothing is ever certain until Apple executives reveal the new phones on stage.
The bottom line
While it’s impossible to know for sure until Apple’s event, it looks very probable that the iPhone 13 Pro Max will come in at least one or two new colors. Bronze and matte black seem like prime candidates based on current rumors. The new colors will capture attention and please users looking for different shades.
But core iPhone buyers focus more on features and performance. Things like camera upgrades, battery life improvements, and speed boosts matter more for driving sales than colors. Still, new color options keep the iPhone fresh and exciting for loyal Apple fans.
We’ll have to wait for Apple’s official announcement to see exactly which new iPhone 13 Pro Max colors they’ve chosen to unveil. But the rumors point to some exciting potential options on the horizon!