Apple's next-generation iPhone 17 Pro models are rumored to include a significant hardware boost, with reports suggesting an upgrade to 12GB of RAM. According to a recent note to investors obtained by 9to5Mac, GFHK Tech Research analyst Jeff Pu reinforced earlier predictions that Apple’s upcoming flagship devices will move from 8GB to 12GB of LPDDR5 RAM, enabling more advanced Apple Intelligence features.
The potential RAM increase is part of Apple's broader strategy to enhance the performance and capabilities of its devices as artificial intelligence (AI) continues to play a larger role in everyday technology. Apple Intelligence, introduced at WWDC 2024, has set new standards for hardware requirements, and this latest move could future-proof the iPhone 17 Pro for upcoming software innovations.
While analyst Ming-Chi Kuo first hinted at this RAM upgrade last year, the latest insights from Pu offer further evidence that Apple is prioritizing memory capacity to handle the growing demands of AI-driven applications. The shift to 12GB of RAM is expected to contribute to a 3.5% year-over-year increase in global smartphone DRAM content, as manufacturers adapt to the needs of modern software.
Apple's approach to boosting RAM isn’t unprecedented. The company recently equipped all new Mac models with a baseline of 16GB RAM, setting the stage for more advanced machine learning and AI functionalities. With Apple Intelligence already requiring 8GB of RAM for basic features on the iPhone 15 Pro and later models, the jump to 12GB could unlock exclusive tools and capabilities that take full advantage of the enhanced memory.
As Apple continues to refine its hardware to support evolving AI software, the iPhone 17 Pro’s expected memory upgrade could not only enhance performance but also offer a glimpse into Apple’s ambitious plans for mobile AI. If the rumors hold true, the new devices could lead the market in balancing high performance with cutting-edge artificial intelligence, setting a new benchmark for future smartphones.
