– iPhone 17 base model has only 8 GB RAM, excluding it from running Apple’s new AI features.
– iPhone 18 base model is expected to upgrade to 12 GB RAM, matching higher-end models.
– Apple reportedly will not raise the base iPhone 18 price despite rising memory costs.
– Base iPhone 18 launch delayed until spring 2027, while Pro models launch in September.
The Apple iPhone 17 ($747 on Amazon) has only 8 GB of RAM, while the iPhone 17 Pro (Max) and the iPhone Air come with 12 GB of RAM. This means that Apple’s new AI model only runs on the more expensive models. In iOS 27, this model is primarily required for the more natural language of the completely revamped Siri AI assistant, but is likely to be necessary for additional AI features in the future. Apple is expected to eliminate this drawback of the base model in the iPhone 18.
Memory Upgrade for the Next Generation
As reported by DigiTimes, the next-generation base iPhone model is set to receive an upgrade from 8 GB to 12 GB of RAM. This lends credibility to earlier rumours. What is suprising, however, is that Apple is not expected to raise the price of the base model despite the DRAM crisis and the 50 percent increase in RAM. If this information is correct, the iPhone 18 with 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of flash storage will launch in the U.S. for $799 and in Europe for €949.
Cost Absorption and Competitive Positioning
Apple is expected to absorb the rising production costs caused by more expensive DRAM and NAND memory itself, rather than passing them on to customers, which would allow the iPhone 18 series to be positioned significantly better against the competition. However, the base model is expected to be at a disadvantage in at least one respect. While the iPhone 18 Pro (Max) and the iPhone Ultra are set to be unveiled in September, the launch of the iPhone 18 is not expected until spring 2027. Aside from a new processor and more RAM, no major upgrades are expected.
- iPhone 18 base model: 12 GB RAM, 256 GB storage, $799 / €949
- iPhone 18 Pro (Max) and Ultra launch in September 2026
- iPhone 18 base model launching in spring 2027
- No price increase expected despite higher DRAM costs
Competitive Landscape and Timelines
DigiTimes, via MacRumors, indicates that the base model will lag behind its siblings in terms of release timing. This staggered launch strategy could frustrate consumers who prefer the more affordable option but do not want to wait until spring of 2027. It also gives competitors a chance to release their own devices with comparable specs months before Apple’s entry-level phone arrives. The Pro models will likely feature even more advanced camera systems and possibly a new design, but these details remain unofficial for now.
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