iPhone 17 Hinted To Be A Better Upgrade Than iPhone 16, As One Rumor Claims That RAM Will Be Bumped Up From 8GB To 12GB

Aug 28, 2024 at 06:20am EDT
iPhone 17 to feature 12GB RAM instead of 8GB

Apple Intelligence will likely be a major marketing point for Apple to encourage iPhone 16 sales, as all models will comfortably run a combination of cloud-based and on-device AI functions thanks to the entire lineup featuring 8GB RAM and a capable Neural Engine. However, a rumor states that those who want a hefty memory upgrade should remain patient for the iPhone 17 launch as the 2025 lineup is said to arrive with 12GB RAM.

A previous rumor also talked about the 12GB RAM upgrade arriving to the iPhone 17 models, but it was exclusive to the ‘Pro’ models

Those who already own the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max will find little motivation to switch to any of the iPhone 16 models, as all of them feature 8GB RAM. However, customers who daily drive Apple’s last year’s top-end models may find the iPhone 17 to be a noteworthy upgrade as on Weibo, a person whose username is machined-translated to ‘Mobile phone chip expert’ has commented that the new family launching in 2025 will feature 12GB RAM.

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The tipster does not clarify if this RAM upgrade will be standard for all iPhone 17 versions, with MacRumors, who spotted the rumor, failing to add any valuable insight. The only other time that Apple is said to bring 12GB RAM to the iPhone 17 range was when Haitong International Securities analyst Jeff Pu predicted this upgrade. However, he also mentioned that the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max would be the recipients of 12GB RAM, suggesting that non-Pro versions will be kitted out with 8GB RAM.

The obvious benefit of adding more memory to an iPhone is that it will have more freedom to run on-device AI functions rather than relying on the cloud, as not everyone will have access to the internet in major parts of the world. Another advantage, which we have discussed before, is that the extra RAM will enable game developers to bring high-level textures to these mobile devices when they port more AAA games. Currently, 8GB RAM can be limiting in various situations, and bumping that to 12GB can open up a boatload of doors.

News Source: Mobile phone chip expert

About the author: Omar Sohail is a reporter and analyst for Wccftech's mobile section, specializing in the technology and business of the mobile industry. His expertise lies in the intricate hardware supply chain, covering developments in semiconductor manufacturing, chip lithography, and camera sensor technology.

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