At 6.5 inches, the iPhone XS Max boasts the biggest screen Apple has ever included on a phone, eclipsing even those of high-profile rivals. The standout feature on the iPhone XS Max is its display, which sets it apart from other devices in the market.

One notable omission is the lack of a headphone jack and the absence of a dongle to support older wired headphones. However, Apple has upped the water-resistance rating from IP67 to IP68, giving users 30 extra minutes of protection against accidental splashes. The company has also tested the device against beer - a welcome addition for those who are prone to clumsiness after a few drinks.

The gold colouring on the stainless steel sides gives them a slightly harder grip than their silver counterparts, evoking a retro vibe reminiscent of a 1970s disco era. While some may find it classy, others might view it as tasteless. The review unit I tested had a softer, almost salmon-look finish and super-bright, shiny sides that join the Silver and Space Grey options.

Despite being made of glass, the device remains vulnerable to cracking if dropped on a hard surface. At 202g, the iPhone XS Max is bulkier than previous models like the iPhone 8 Plus (202g) and Samsung Galaxy Note 9 (201g), making it more challenging to manage one-handed.

Apple claims that the glass used on both the front and back of the handset is the strongest ever produced. While the larger screen and lack of bezel make it tricky to access certain parts of the screen, the iPhone XS Max feels thicker and more difficult to handle due to its size.

In comparison, Samsung has successfully disguised the size of their Galaxy Note 9 by incorporating curves into the design, making it feel smaller than it actually is. Apple could have done more to address the issue with the size of the iPhone XS Max, which can be overwhelming for some users.

The iPhone XS Max packs all the design tweaks and material choices that debuted with the X, including a stainless steel rim, glass back, and near edge-to-edge display. While it may not be perfect, this device genuinely offers something different from its predecessors, making it a significant update to the iPhone line this year.

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