iPhone 17 Air and Pro Models Rumored to Feature 12GB RAM Upgrade
Apple’s upcoming iPhone 17 lineup, expected to launch in September 2025, could bring a major performance boost with 12GB of RAM across multiple models—including the rumored ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air.
Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo Predicts 12GB RAM Across iPhone 17 Models
Renowned Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has revealed that iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max are all set to receive a 12GB RAM upgrade. In a recent blog post, Kuo revised his previous forecast, which only included the Pro Max variant with 12GB.
This update comes as welcome news for Apple fans hoping to see increased memory in more accessible models, especially with growing demands from AI and multitasking features in iOS.
Base iPhone 17 Might Also Get 12GB—But There’s a Catch
Kuo also mentioned that Apple is considering giving the base iPhone 17 model 12GB of RAM, depending on supply chain conditions. The decision is expected to be finalized by May 2025.
Currently, all iPhone 16 models come with 8GB of RAM, so moving to 12GB would be a substantial leap in performance. The added memory will likely enhance Apple Intelligence (AI) performance, smoother app switching, and more robust background processing.
RAM Boost Will Benefit Apple Intelligence and Future-Proofing
The increase to 12GB of RAM aligns with Apple’s push toward AI-driven features and more advanced multitasking capabilities. With growing expectations around Apple Intelligence—such as smarter Siri, on-device processing, and machine learning—having more RAM is essential.
Even if the standard iPhone 17 doesn’t get the RAM upgrade, Kuo expects all iPhone 18 models in 2026 to feature 12GB, suggesting that this will soon become Apple’s new baseline for flagship phones.
RAM Suppliers Like Micron and SK Hynix to Benefit
Apple’s move toward higher RAM configurations will also be a big win for suppliers like Micron and SK Hynix, both of whom are key players in Apple’s supply chain. Increased demand for higher-capacity memory chips will likely drive more business their way as Apple prepares for large-scale production.
iPhone 17 Launch Expected in September 2025
As with previous iPhone releases, Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 17 series in September 2025. If the RAM upgrades become reality, users can expect better performance, longer-lasting relevance, and more fluid experiences with Apple’s growing suite of AI-powered tools.
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning to upgrade your iPhone this year, the iPhone 17 series may offer one of the most significant performance jumps in years, thanks to the potential 12GB RAM boost. Stay tuned for official announcements as we get closer to Apple’s fall event.
