Apple is reportedly planning a significant upgrade for its upcoming iPhone 17 lineup, introducing a 12GB RAM boost to enhance multitasking, gaming, and generative AI capabilities. This upgrade will primarily be available in the pricier ‘Pro’ models, with Samsung set to supply 70% of the DRAM required. Known for providing OLED panels to Apple, Samsung now expands its partnership into the memory chip arena.
SK hynix and Micron are expected to fulfill the remaining demand as Apple finalizes agreements with its suppliers. The information surfaced from a report by ETNews, revealing that the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max will likely feature the increased RAM, whereas the base iPhone 17 and the iPhone 17 Air are expected to stick with 8GB. The entire lineup was initially expected to receive the RAM upgrade, but analyst Ming-Chi Kuo noted that if Apple faces supply chain issues, the base models might not see the change.
This RAM enhancement is reportedly about 50% more costly than the previous 8GB version, prompting Apple to collaborate with multiple suppliers to gain leverage in negotiations. Samsung is anticipated to partner with its Electro-Mechanics division, while SK hynix may collaborate with LG Innotek, and Micron might join forces with Japan’s Shinko Electric to meet the demand.
Although the specifics are still unconfirmed, this 12GB RAM enhancement is predicted to be exclusive to the iPhone 17 Pro models. Stay tuned for updates as more details emerge.
