The iPhone 17 Air and iPhone 17 Pro models are rumored to feature a notable increase in RAM
Apple may significantly increase the RAM in its upcoming iPhone 17 series, according to renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. Last year, the iPhone 16 series introduced 8GB of RAM, a feature previously exclusive to Pro models, enabling support for Apple Intelligence—a suite of AI-powered features that require at least 8GB of RAM. This year, Apple could take it a step further by equipping three of the four iPhone 17 models—the iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max—with 12GB of RAM .
However, the base iPhone 17 model might miss out on this upgrade due to potential supply shortages. While Apple is reportedly considering adding 12GB of RAM to the standard model, a final decision will depend on supply chain conditions, which the company plans to evaluate in May. If the base model doesn’t receive the upgrade this year, Kuo predicts that all iPhone 18 models in 2025 will feature 12GB of RAM.
This increase in RAM is expected to enhance performance, particularly for Apple Intelligence and multitasking capabilities. The move would also benefit suppliers like Micron and SK Hynix, who are key partners in memory production.
The iPhone 17 Air , in particular, is shaping up to be a standout device with Pro-level features, including a sleek design, a 24MP selfie camera , MagSafe, an Action button, an in-house Wi-Fi chip, and a global eSIM setup. With the rumored 12GB of RAM, the iPhone 17 Air could rival the Pro models in functionality while maintaining a more accessible price point. All iPhone 17 models are expected to launch in September alongside their respective siblings.