Analyst Reports iPhone 17 Base Model Lacks 12GB RAM and Chipset Upgrade, Retaining Older A18 SoC from iPhone 16

Recent reports regarding the iPhone 17 series indicated that all models were expected to include an impressive 12GB of RAM. However, challenges related to supply chain management may prevent Apple from achieving this goal. The latest information shared by industry analysts reveals that the base model of the iPhone 17 may not live up to initial expectations, as it is likely to come equipped with disappointing specifications. Notably, this entry-level device will forego the anticipated A19 chip, instead opting for the already existing A18 processor currently used in the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus.

Base iPhone 17 Specifications Indicate Cost-Cutting Measures; Upgraded iPhone 17 Air on the Horizon

Analyst Jeff Pu from GF Securities recently provided insights into the base iPhone 17 specifications, which were highlighted by MacRumors. It appears that the base model will maintain the previous 8GB RAM configuration, but will not feature the new chip. Instead, retaining the A18 processor marks a significant setback compared to the anticipated enhancements of the other models in the lineup, which are expected to outperform this base version considerably.

For consumers looking for upgraded features, the iPhone 17 Air may emerge as the preferred choice. This model is rumored to host the A19 chip, manufactured using TSMC’s advanced third-generation 3nm process, along with a substantial upgrade to 12GB of RAM. Interestingly, previous reports indicated that only the Pro variants would receive this RAM improvement, paired with an innovative vapor chamber cooler to efficiently manage the A19 Pro’s thermal output.

The necessity for downgrades in the base iPhone 17 could be linked to additional enhancements, such as an LTPO OLED display, which would offer a high refresh rate option. While the iPhone 16 achieved remarkable success as the world’s best-selling smartphone in Q1 2025 without such features, Apple seems willing to compromise on performance aspects this time around, likely due to the higher costs associated with integrating an LTPO OLED panel.

Considering the anticipated mass production of the base iPhone 17, cost reduction appears to be a primary objective for the company. Although we hope that Jeff Pu’s predictions prove inaccurate, clarity on the final specifications can only be obtained with Apple’s official unveiling of the series scheduled for September.

Source&Images