55%
Plausible
Apple had pretty much made it clear during WWDC 2026 that having more RAM in any device will help you keep it for longer while enjoying a truckload of features. While the company won’t have issues bringing 12GB of memory to the pricier iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, the base model is where Apple could be torn as it combats the ongoing DRAM shortage.
Fortunately, there’s still a way to bring the same RAM count to the standard version, but it’ll require one compromise. However, if you really think about it, buyers should have no issues in embracing this cost-cutting move.
To ensure the base iPhone 18 features 12GB RAM, Apple will need to use an inferior display
Based on @SPYGO19726’s assumption, Apple can either use the new M14 panel and pair the iPhone 18 with 8GB of RAM, or use the previous-generation M12+ OLED in favor of that 12GB upgrade. Given that the majority of Apple’s customer base for the iPhone 18 will look at the price first and specifications later, downgrading the display is a move that most won’t even bother noticing because that specific aspect isn’t even discussed in the company’s marketing material.
After all, when was the last time you decided to do some “pixel peeping” to determine which smartphone OLED produces better colors, contrast, blacks, brightness, or other attributes? At most, iPhone 18 users will experience a slightly reduced battery due to the M12+, but there are other areas where Apple can enable the device to last longer.
Using the 2nm A20 coupled with the C2 5G modem and N2 wireless chip is a start, and for the most part, that’s pretty much all you’ll need to deliver a major battery life uplift. The base iPhone 18’s 12GB RAM upgrade won’t just be beneficial for hefty multitasking and keeping apps running in the background for a lot longer, but it’ll also go a long way to provide a smoother gaming experience in AAA titles, thanks to having more memory available.
Last, but certainly not least, the iPhone 18 will be one of the few Apple devices to be able to run its most advanced on-device AI model, which requires a minimum of 12GB RAM. Looking at all these benefits, isn’t it better to have more memory over a display upgrade? Let us know in the comments
News Source: @SPYGO19726
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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