The time capsule for America’s 250th anniversary contains an iPhone 17 Pro Max.

      The United States has created a significant time capsule to commemorate its 250th anniversary, which includes a widely recognized item of today: an iPhone 17 Pro Max.

      This stainless steel capsule, weighing around 900 pounds (approximately 400kg), was buried in Philadelphia as part of the country's semiquincentennial festivities. It is intended to remain sealed for the next 250 years, with plans for it to be opened in 2276 during the celebration of America’s 500th anniversary.

      While the capsule includes historical artifacts, cultural items, and contributions from states, the presence of Apple’s latest flagship smartphone highlights the crucial role of mobile technology in daily life.

      Capturing a snapshot of America in 2026 – with technology included

      In contrast to conventional time capsules that emphasize historical memorabilia, this initiative aims to depict a comprehensive view of modern American society. Arranged by America250, the collection features contributions from all 50 states, five U.S. territories, and various cultural and sports organizations.

      One of the most discussed items is a Cosmic Orange iPhone 17 Pro Max. Organizers state that the device contains digital artifacts saved in the Notes app, providing future generations a glimpse into daily life in 2026 – presuming the hardware is still operational after 250 years.

      That poses a significant question. Modern lithium-ion batteries usually deteriorate over years, making it highly improbable that the phone will turn on in 2276 without some restoration. Nonetheless, the device symbolizes the smartphone era, similar to how typewriters or rotary phones symbolize earlier generations.

      The capsule also includes an AI-generated response from Anthropic’s Claude, submitted by California, envisioning what the state might resemble 250 years in the future. Other items consist of a feather from “Old Abe,” the Civil War bald eagle mascot contributed by Wisconsin, a piece of fabric from the Wright brothers’ 1903 aircraft from Ohio, a bone from the endangered North Atlantic right whale donated by Maine, an Arkansas diamond, a traditional cookie recipe from New Mexico, and a commemorative pin celebrating the Oklahoma City Thunder’s 2025 NBA championship.

      Interestingly, not all proposed artifacts made it into the final selection.

      Engineers dismissed an American football after assessing that it would likely degrade before the capsule is unearthed.

      Designing an item to endure 250 years underground required significant engineering effort. After evaluating various designs, engineers opted for a stainless steel cylinder to minimize seams where moisture could enter. The capsule is housed within a protective metal bell that creates an insulating air pocket, while a layer of indium provides an additional airtight seal. Important documents have also been kept in a separate sealed compartment for extra safeguarding.

      The Philadelphia capsule is one of two major time capsules created for the 250th anniversary of America. A second capsule, revealed in Washington, is intended for the nation’s 500th anniversary, though its contents have mostly remained private.

      For many people today, the iPhone might be the standout artifact. However, 250 years in the future, it could merely be another historical curiosity, serving as a reminder of how individuals communicated, chronicled their lives, and perceived technology during the nation’s 250th birthday celebrations.