The iPhone 17 series, anticipated to be launched later this year, is expected to offer enhanced RAM support compared to the iPhone 16 lineup. This forthcoming series is likely to feature a standard model, an Air variant, as well as Pro and Pro Max versions. A source has indicated that these new smartphones will include 12GB of RAM, an upgrade from the 8GB found in the current models. Additionally, the source suggested that the iPhone 18 series, set to debut in the second half of 2026, may also see improvements in memory capacity.
Anticipated RAM Specifications for iPhone 17 and iPhone 18 Series
According to a Weibo post by tipster Digital Chat Station, the iPhone 17 devices are expected to be equipped with 12GB of RAM. The inclusion of advanced features powered by Apple Intelligence and other AI technologies is believed to benefit significantly from the increased memory capacity.
The Pro models, such as the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, are anticipated to utilize the A19 Pro chipset, which is likely to be manufactured using TSMC’s 3nm process. This combination of the 12GB of RAM and the new chip is projected to deliver performance enhancements over the current A18 Pro SoC, which powers the existing iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max models.
Further details from the tipster also suggest that the iPhone 18 series, expected to launch in late 2026, may support six-channel LPDDR5X memory. This upgrade is anticipated to further elevate the performance capabilities of these upcoming devices.
These recent revelations regarding memory specifications follow insights from TF Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who previously indicated that Apple was exploring the incorporation of 12GB of RAM in the standard iPhone 17 model, aligning it with the other variants in the series. Kuo also projected that all models in the iPhone 18 series could feature 12GB of RAM.
Preparation for the iPhone 17 lineup is progressing well, with reports indicating that at least one variant has successfully passed the Engineering Validation Testing (EVT) phase, which verifies the functionality of the hardware. Following this, the devices are expected to undergo Design Validation Testing (DVT) and Production Validation Testing (PVT) before entering mass production. These standard testing processes suggest that the series is on track for an anticipated launch in September.
