# Reasons to Consider Waiting for the iPhone 17 Instead of Choosing the iPhone 16
As anticipation builds in the tech community for the arrival of the iPhone 16, a recent leak has fueled conversations about whether prospective buyers should delay their purchase and hold out for the iPhone 17. A reputable leaker, known for accurate predictions, has indicated that the imminent iPhone 17 will come with notable enhancements, particularly in RAM, potentially boosting the device’s performance, especially in relation to Apple Intelligence functionality.
## iPhone 17 Expected to Feature 12GB RAM
A post on Weibo by the user identified as Mobile Phone Chip Expert (MPCE) suggests that the iPhone 17 will likely be equipped with 12GB of RAM, representing a significant upgrade from the 8GB available in the iPhone 16 series. This RAM enhancement is expected to offer considerable advantages for users, especially concerning on-device artificial intelligence (AI) applications.
MPCE remarked, “If you’re considering an AI-equipped iPhone, perhaps the 2025 iPhone 17 is a wise selection. This year’s iPhone 16 only has 8GB of internal memory, mainly relying on cloud-based AI. The forthcoming iPhone 17 will have 12GB, facilitating more on-device AI applications.” This comment suggests a strategic pivot by Apple toward bolstering local processing capabilities, potentially leading to an improved user experience.
## The Progression of RAM in iPhones
Apple has steadily upped the RAM capacity in its iPhone models over recent years. The iPhone 14 lineup had 6GB of RAM across all models, while the iPhone 15 series introduced 8GB of RAM in its Pro variants, with the base and Plus models maintaining the 6GB setup. The expected increase to 12GB in the iPhone 17 represents a crucial advancement, particularly for Pro models, which are expected to utilize the extra memory for superior performance.
At present, only the iPhone 15 Pro models support Apple Intelligence features, which likely require a combination of robust processors and adequate RAM. There’s hope that the iPhone 17 will continue this trend and further expand Apple Intelligence’s capabilities through increased on-device processing.
## Enhanced On-Device AI Expected Next Year
The possibility of the iPhone 17 supporting a greater number of on-device AI applications could revolutionize user experience. MPCE proposes that the bump to 12GB of RAM signals Apple’s intentions to lessen dependence on cloud computing for AI tasks. This transition could lead to quicker performance and improved security for users, as more activities would be carried out locally instead of relying on Apple’s Private Cloud Compute (PCC) servers.
If the iPhone 17 can manage additional AI tasks directly on the device, it could provide users with a more agile experience, particularly in AI-heavy applications like Siri and other smart functionalities.
## Take from 9to5Mac
The insights shared by MPCE merit attention, given their history of accurately predicting Apple’s chip developments. They were among the first to announce that the A16 processor would be exclusive to the iPhone 14 Pro models and have recently reported on Apple’s advancements with 3nm chips for AI servers. Consequently, the expectation that the iPhone 17 will include 12GB of RAM should be regarded seriously.
Although the effects of this RAM increase on Apple Intelligence remain uncertain, it is consistent with Apple’s ongoing focus on on-device processing. This approach not only boosts performance but also tackles privacy issues by reducing the volume of data transmitted to the cloud.
## Conclusion: Is Waiting Justified?
Ultimately, whether to upgrade to the iPhone 16 or await the iPhone 17 hinges on personal needs and preferences. If you currently possess an iPhone 15 Pro or Pro Max, you might not feel an urgent need for an immediate upgrade. However, for those with older models, the appeal of improved AI capabilities and performance in the iPhone 17 may make delaying a worthwhile consideration.
With a new Siri anticipated to debut next year, postponing until the iPhone 17’s release in September may not be overly difficult for those eager to engage with the next generation of Apple’s technology. As always, it’s vital to evaluate the benefits of prompt upgrades against the promising advancements just around the corner.
*Image: Michael Bower/9to5Mac*
