**The Standard iPhone 18 Is Anticipated To Include 12GB Of RAM, Similar To The Pro Variants**
In a notable change for Apple’s device lineup, the forthcoming iPhone 18 is predicted to incorporate 12GB of RAM, bringing it in line with the Pro variants. This update signifies a shift from the existing iPhone 17, which is restricted to 8GB of memory. According to a report from Korea’s The Bell, Apple is in the process of securing LPDDR5X memory units from Samsung, with intentions to guarantee a sufficient supply for the iPhone 18 series. The company has placed an order for 13 million LPDDR5X packages, suggesting a proactive approach to avert supply chain issues due to heightened demand from AI firms.
Although Samsung has the capacity to manufacture 16GB LPDDR5X RAM modules, Apple has chosen to go with the 12GB option. The report does not address the specifications for the second-generation iPhone Air or the first-generation iPhone Fold, leaving ambiguity regarding their RAM configurations. Furthermore, it is uncertain if the iPhone 18e, which is slated for release alongside the base iPhone 18 in spring 2027, will also incorporate 12GB of RAM. Apple’s choice to increase RAM capacity is reportedly associated with its aspirations in AI, as the company aims to boost its competitive stance in this swiftly changing sector.
**Will the Standard iPhone 18 Be Priced Higher?**
The inclusion of 12GB of RAM in the base iPhone 18 prompts inquiries regarding possible price increases. Apple’s recent pattern of augmenting RAM capacity started with the iPhone 16 models, all of which feature 8GB of memory to facilitate AI functionalities. The company has similarly enhanced the RAM in the base MacBook Air to 16GB to support AI-related tasks. The Bell notes that Apple is considering additional RAM suppliers like SK Hynix and Micron, but Samsung continues to be the leading candidate due to its capability to fulfill Apple’s specific demands for LPDDR5X DRAM.
A recent report indicates that the A20 chips for the iPhone 18 series may have higher production costs, potentially resulting in price increases. The rise in RAM costs could also impact the pricing of other smartphones moving forward. The $799 standard iPhone 17 has enjoyed commercial success, providing features akin to the Pro variants, albeit with variations in RAM, processor, and camera specifications. As Apple gears up to unveil the iPhone 18 in early 2027, it will be interesting to observe whether the company revises its pricing strategy for the standard model.
