Apple may limit some advanced AI features on its upcoming iPhone 18. Reports suggest the standard model will come with 9GB of RAM instead of the 12GB required for the full Apple Intelligence experience.
According to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple plans to use the same memory setup for both the iPhone 18 and the lower-cost iPhone 18e. The iPhone 18e is expected to launch in early 2027.
The lower RAM configuration could affect the devices’ ability to run advanced on-device AI tools. The full Apple Intelligence suite is said to need at least 12GB of RAM, similar to AI systems like Gemini on Android devices.
Reports say Apple may be using lower memory to control production costs. This could help the company keep prices lower for the standard iPhone 18 and the iPhone 18e.
However, this move may widen the gap between standard and Pro models. Users who want advanced AI tools may need to choose higher-end devices.
According to the report, the iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e will use six 1.5GB DRAM chips, making a total of 9GB RAM. This would still be an improvement over the 8GB RAM found in the current iPhone 17 models.
Earlier reports had suggested Apple might increase memory to 12GB. That would have supported more advanced AI processing directly on the phone.
But supply issues and rising memory costs reportedly led the company to settle on 9GB. This decision may help maintain stable production and lower manufacturing expenses.
Both models are expected to feature the new A20 chip. The processor will likely be built using TSMC’s advanced 2nm technology.
The A20 chip could offer 15 percent better CPU performance than the A19. It may also improve power efficiency by up to 30 percent.
The chip is expected to include a stronger Neural Engine for future AI features. Still, the 9GB RAM could limit heavier AI tasks.
In other news read more about iPhone 18 Prices Expected to Rise as AI Boom Drives Up Chip Costs
Meanwhile, the iPhone 18 Pro models and Apple’s first foldable iPhone may come with 12GB RAM. These premium devices are expected to support the full Apple Intelligence experience and launch in late 2026.
