If you’re considering upgrading to an AI-powered iPhone, you may want to hold off on next year’s iPhone 17. According to a tip from Chinese source 手机晶片达人, shared on Weibo, Apple is planning to boost the RAM in the iPhone 17, making it a better choice for those interested in advanced AI capabilities.
While the iPhone 16, expected to launch on September 9, is rumoured to feature 8GB of RAM to support Apple’s new artificial intelligence features, the iPhone 17 could take this a step further with a 12GB RAM option. This increase in RAM could allow the iPhone 17 to handle more complex, on-device AI applications, which Apple calls “on-device processing.”
Edge AI and the need for more RAM
If you’re unfamiliar with the term, edge AI refers to processing data directly on the device rather than relying on cloud servers. This on-device approach helps ensure faster response times and improved privacy. However, more complex AI tasks will still require larger, server-based models for processing, which could be a challenge for the iPhone 16 due to its 8GB RAM.
Therefore, the iPhone 16 models may depend more on cloud-based processing for some of their more advanced AI features. This could mean a less efficient experience for users who rely heavily on AI functions that need larger models. In contrast, the anticipated 12GB RAM in the iPhone 17 would allow it to run more of these complex applications directly on the device, enhancing speed and performance.
Apple to use RAM as a key differentiator
Apple’s new AI features are only available on higher-end devices like the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max, as well as iPads and Macs equipped with at least the M1 chip. The reason? RAM limitations. By increasing the RAM in the iPhone 17, Apple aims to make these features more accessible.
Last month, another well-known tipster, Ice Universe, suggested that the iPhone 17 Pro models could feature up to 12GB of RAM, while the standard models would likely remain at 8GB. This difference could serve as a strategy to encourage customers to opt for the Pro models, providing a significant performance boost for those willing to pay extra.
What to expect from the iPhone 16
While all eyes are on the potential for next year’s iPhone 17, there is still plenty to look forward to with the iPhone 16 series, which Apple will unveil on September 9.
If you are interested in Apple’s advanced AI capabilities, it might be worth waiting for the iPhone 17, which promises more RAM and better performance for AI applications.
