The iPhone 17 is just around the corner, and if current reports are correct, there will be some major hardware changes. Apple is likely to significantly increase RAM, in particular. Interestingly, not only the Pro models are expected to benefit from this, but also the new, ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air.
Apple has opted for 8 GB of RAM across the iPhone 16, from the base model to the Pro model. That was a solid step forward, but now the next one could be coming. According to well-known analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the iPhone 17 series will receive significantly more RAM. What's particularly noteworthy is that not only the more expensive devices are being upgraded, but also the cheaper versions. The iPhone 17 Air is particularly notable – a new, ultra-thin model that, despite its technical capabilities, isn't expected to be inferior.
iPhone 17 Air planned with 12 GB RAM
According to Kuo, the iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max will each be equipped with 12 GB of RAM. He originally assumed only the Pro Max would make this leap. Now it's clear: the other models in the series will also get more RAM. This is especially interesting for users who don't immediately opt for the most expensive device but still expect high performance.
What about the base iPhone 17?
The standard iPhone 17 could also come with 12 GB of RAM – but that depends on Apple's supply chain. There are still bottlenecks, and according to Kuo, Apple won't make a final decision on whether to upgrade the base model until May. If the current problems persist, it could remain at 8 GB of RAM. Nevertheless, it would be progress if almost all models in the series were equipped with 12 GB.
Why is more RAM important?
In practice, more RAM means faster response times, better multitasking, and better performance for features based on artificial intelligence, such as Apple Intelligence. This makes a difference, especially for users who have many apps open at once or use more complex applications. With future iOS versions in mind, more RAM also makes sense for future-proofing (via Ming Chi Kuo).
Preview of the iPhone 18
Kuo expects Apple to rely entirely on 12 GB of RAM for the iPhone 18, regardless of the model. This would make 12 GB the new standard. This also makes sense from a technical perspective, as the demands on mobile devices continue to rise, especially in the area of AI and compute-intensive applications.
Suppliers benefit from the expansion
The RAM upgrade isn't just interesting for end customers. Apple's suppliers, especially Micron and SK Hynix, also benefit. They manufacture the memory chips needed for the upgrade and, according to Kuo, will be among the main winners of the transition.
Market launch in September
Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 17 as usual in September. Until then, there's still time for final decisions, such as the RAM configuration of the base model. By then, it will be clear how the new generation will position itself—it certainly looks powerful.
iPhone 17: More performance for all models
The iPhone 17 is expected to bring a significant hardware upgrade. Particularly striking: Despite its thin design, the iPhone 17 Air won't be slimmed down in terms of technology, but with 12 GB of RAM, it's on par with the Pro models. The standard model could also follow suit if Apple resolves the supply bottlenecks. One thing is already clear: Apple is improving performance – across all price ranges. (Image: MajinBuOfficial / X)
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