iPhone 17 Base Model Now Said to Feature A18 Chip and 8GB of RAM

Utsanjan Maity
June 01, 2025
iPhone 17 Base Model: A Minor Upgrade?

iPhone 17 Base Model: A Minor Upgrade Over the iPhone 16?

iPhone 16 Teal

Recent rumors paint a picture of the base iPhone 17 as a relatively modest upgrade compared to its predecessor, the iPhone 16. While some exciting features are expected, the core specifications might disappoint those hoping for a significant leap in performance.

Processor and RAM: Familiar Territory

According to Apple analyst Jeff Pu from GF Securities, the standard iPhone 17 will utilize the same A18 chip as the iPhone 16. This chip will continue to be manufactured using TSMC's second-generation 3nm process, known as N3E. While this might not sound exciting, it ensures a solid level of performance.

The RAM situation also appears to be a continuation of the iPhone 16's configuration. Pu predicts that the base iPhone 17 will retain 8GB of RAM. This contrasts with earlier predictions from analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who suggested Apple was considering both 8GB and 12GB RAM options for the base model. It seems Apple has opted for the less ambitious upgrade in this area.

In contrast, the higher-end models are expected to see a substantial improvement. The iPhone 17 Air is rumored to feature the A19 chip, while the iPhone 17 Pro models are slated to receive the even more powerful A19 Pro. Both of these chips are expected to be built using TSMC's advanced third-generation 3nm process, N3P, promising a significant performance boost over the base model.

The memory difference is also noticeable between the base model and the higher-tier iPhones. Ming-Chi Kuo predicts that the iPhone 17 Air and both iPhone 17 Pro models will all boast a considerable 12GB of RAM, further separating the premium models from the standard option.

Design and Display: Subtle Changes

The overall design of the base iPhone 17 is expected to remain largely consistent with the iPhone 16. Reports suggest minimal exterior changes, focusing instead on internal improvements. However, there are some significant display improvements expected.

One key upgrade is the rumored transition to a 120Hz display. The iPhone 16's 60Hz refresh rate will reportedly be replaced with a smoother, more responsive 120Hz ProMotion display, enhancing the user experience significantly. This is a welcome improvement even if other specs remain similar.

The display size will also see a slight increase. According to display analyst Ross Young, the base iPhone 17 will feature a 6.3-inch display, compared to the 6.1-inch screen on the iPhone 16. This modest increase provides a marginally larger viewing area without a drastic change in the phone's overall dimensions.

Camera: A Megapixel Boost

Another area of improvement is the front-facing camera. The iPhone 17 is expected to sport a 24-megapixel front camera, a noticeable jump from the 12-megapixel sensor found in the iPhone 16. This upgrade should deliver sharper selfies and better low-light performance.

Overall: Incremental Improvements

In summary, the base iPhone 17 appears to be more of an iterative upgrade than a revolutionary overhaul. While the 120Hz display, larger screen, and improved front camera are all welcome additions, the lack of a significant processor jump and the retention of 8GB RAM may leave some potential buyers feeling underwhelmed, especially when compared to the considerable enhancements expected in the higher-end models.

The strategy appears to be focused on offering a refined experience rather than a dramatic leap forward in performance for the base model, allowing Apple to maintain a pricing structure that caters to a broad range of consumers. The key question will be whether these incremental improvements justify the price point when the iPhone 17 launches in September.

Where to Learn More

For more in-depth discussions and the latest updates on iPhone 17 rumors, be sure to check out these resources:



from MacRumors
-via DynaSage