GoKawiilApple’s base model iPhone 18 was previously rumored to get 12GB of RAM, but a new report claims it’s only getting 9GB instead—raising questions about support for iOS 27’s most demanding features.
Ming-Chi Kuo says A20 chip in iPhone 18 will have 9GB of RAM, not the 12GB previously rumored
If you’re interested in a base model iPhone 18, which isn’t shipping until next year, a new report might give you pause.
Ming-Chi Kuo posted the following on X today:
iOS 27 will bring tighter system-level integration with Apple Intelligence. My latest industry checks suggest Apple's lower-end 1H27 iPhones, powered by the A20 chip, will move to 9GB DRAM (1.5GB × 6 dies), up from 8GB (2GB × 4 dies) in the current A19 models, to keep the system… — 郭明錤｜Ming-Chi Kuo (@mingchikuo) June 26, 2026
iPhone 18 was previously expected to get 12GB of RAM, but perhaps due to the current industry memory crisis, it sounds like 9GB is now planned instead.
We’ve heard from leakers that Apple is trying to cut costs on its base iPhone 18, and memory could definitely be a key area to do that.
But it raises an important question about support for iOS 27’s top features.
iPhone 17 isn’t getting certain advanced AI capabilities in iOS 27. And RAM is the reason. The base iPhone 17 only has 8GB of RAM, while Apple’s current minimum for those features is 12GB.
However, it’s possible Apple plans to make 9GB the new floor so that the base iPhone 18 is included.
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