Apple plans to add 12GB of RAM to some iPhone 17 models later this year, helping with multitasking, gaming, and AI features. Supply problems might stop Apple from giving all models this memory boost. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo thinks only the iPhone 17 Air, Pro, and Pro Max will have 12GB RAM, with the basic model keeping 8GB RAM because of these shortages. He believes all iPhone 18 models will have 12GB of RAM next year when supply issues ease.
Money matters play a role in this decision. The cost jumps about 50 percent when switching from 8GB to 12GB RAM chips. This raises expenses for Apple even though suppliers like Micron and SK hynix earn more. Limiting which models get extra RAM helps Apple control costs. The company picked the basic iPhone 17 as the model to miss out since the other versions typically sell better anyway. The Pro models always offer special features that attract buyers, and the new Air model will likely draw attention with its extra-thin design.
Apple might make better deals with suppliers for the iPhone 18 models next year. The memory chip technology should become cheaper as time passes. Kuo could be wrong about these predictions for both iPhone lineups. We need to wait for more information before knowing for sure what Apple decides.
Money matters play a role in this decision. The cost jumps about 50 percent when switching from 8GB to 12GB RAM chips. This raises expenses for Apple even though suppliers like Micron and SK hynix earn more. Limiting which models get extra RAM helps Apple control costs. The company picked the basic iPhone 17 as the model to miss out since the other versions typically sell better anyway. The Pro models always offer special features that attract buyers, and the new Air model will likely draw attention with its extra-thin design.
Apple might make better deals with suppliers for the iPhone 18 models next year. The memory chip technology should become cheaper as time passes. Kuo could be wrong about these predictions for both iPhone lineups. We need to wait for more information before knowing for sure what Apple decides.
