Rumors Suggest iPhone 17 Pro Max to Feature 12GB RAM for Enhanced AI Performance, Other Models Remain at 8GB

Yesterday, a tip from a Sina Weibo user, @手机晶片达人, revealed that the upcoming iPhone 16 series will only have 8GB of RAM, implying that AI-related functions will still rely on cloud support rather than on-device processing. Next year's iPhone 17 series, however, is expected to offer 12GB of RAM, enabling more extensive support for edge AI, or on-device AI capabilities.

Today, renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo  shared new insights. He mentioned that even with next year's iPhone 17 lineup, most models will continue to feature 8GB of RAM, with the exception of the iPhone 17 Pro Max, which will be equipped with 12GB of RAM.

Specifically, the ultra-thin iPhone, iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and the new iPhone SE will all come with 8GB of RAM. The iPhone 17 Pro Max, equipped with 12GB of RAM, is likely to highlight its enhanced on-device AI capabilities as a key selling point.

It remains unclear whether this is due to hardware limitations or a deliberate choice by Apple. Many users anticipate on-device AI support rather than relying on cloud-based AI capabilities, yet Apple's decision to stick with 8GB of RAM seems intentional.

Kuo also mentioned that the iPhone 17 Pro Max will undergo a cooling system upgrade, incorporating Vapor Chamber (VC) technology and graphite for enhanced heat dissipation, while other models will continue to use graphite for thermal management alone.

On the other hand, larger screens and better specifications also hold greater appeal for users. The Pro Max model accounts for 40% of new device shipments, making it the largest contributor to Apple's hardware product revenue and profits. Therefore, Apple is likely to continue its strategy of differentiating the Pro Max model by providing the best specifications.