The rumored ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air will feature 12GB of RAM, according to trusted analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.
In a new blog post, Kuo revealed that Apple plans to equip the iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max with 12GB of memory which is a notable jump from the 8GB seen across the entire iPhone 16 lineup.
12GB RAM For All!
Initially, Kuo expected only the top-tier iPhone 17 Pro Max to get the RAM upgrade, but his latest supply chain-checks suggest Apple is expanding that spec across more models. Even the base-model iPhone 17 might get 12GB RAM, but that will depend on whether Apple can avoid supply constraints. A final decision is expected by May.
This RAM boost is more than just a spec bump. More memory means smoother multitasking, better support for demanding apps, and a more capable on-device AI experience with Apple Intelligence, something Apple is clearly doubling down on.
With features like live transcription, advanced photo editing, and improved Siri responses expected to run locally, the extra headroom will make a noticeable difference.
The RAM upgrade will also benefit Apple’s suppliers, particularly Micron and SK Hynix, who are providing the memory chips for the new iPhones.
Even if the standard iPhone 17 sticks with 8GB RAM this year, Kuo believes Apple is planning to move its entire iPhone 18 lineup to 12GB in 2026.
Apple is expected to announce the iPhone 17 lineup along with iOS 19 and more, this September. The iPhone 17 Air is shaping up to be a standout, not just for its slim design, but now for performance too.
Comments