AI
Jun 18, 2026 Major2
83%
iPhone 18 to Feature 12GB RAM for Enhanced Siri AI, Price to Remain Unchanged
The iPhone 18 is confirmed to feature 12GB of RAM to support advanced on-device Siri AI features, marking a 4GB increase over the iPhone 17. Apple is expected to absorb the higher RAM costs to keep the base model priced at $799, with the standard models launching in early 2027.
Quick Facts
Who
Apple
What
iPhone 18 to feature 12GB RAM
When
autumn 2026 (Pro models)
Where
Taiwan (source of rumor)
- iPhone 18 to feature 12GB RAM
- enhanced Siri AI requires 12GB RAM
- Apple absorbs higher RAM costs
- base price remains $799
- Apple
According to multiple reports from Taiwanese and industry sources, Apple's upcoming iPhone 18 will include 12GB of RAM, a significant upgrade from the 8GB found in the iPhone 17. The additional memory is specifically intended to power a new, more advanced on-device Siri AI model, which Apple has indicated requires a minimum of 12GB of RAM to function at its full potential.
The enhanced Siri, previewed at WWDC 2026, is expected to offer more expressive voices with customizable sliders and deliver substantial improvements in dictation accuracy. However, these features will be exclusive to the iPhone 18 and later models, as the iPhone 17's 8GB RAM limit makes it incompatible. Apple's new capabilities are slated for release with iOS 27 in the fall of 2027.
Crucially, Apple is reportedly absorbing the increased cost of the RAM modules, which have seen price hikes in the current market. By securing memory from suppliers Samsung, SK Hynix, and Micron at premium rates and covering the difference internally, the company plans to maintain the iPhone 18's base price at $799 in the US. This pricing strategy could give Apple a notable advantage over Android competitors facing higher component costs.
The iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and the first foldable iPhone are expected to be unveiled in autumn 2026. The standard iPhone 18, alongside the iPhone 18e and iPhone Air 2, are anticipated to launch in the first half of 2027.
Why This Matters
This development is actionable for consumers planning their upgrade cycle: if you want the best Siri AI features (more expressive voices, better dictation), you need an iPhone 18 or later. Apple's decision to keep the $799 base price means you get a significant spec bump without paying more upfront, potentially making it the most attractive buy among 2027 flagships. For investors and analysts, it signals Apple's commitment to on-device AI and its ability to manage supply chain costs, which could pressure Android rivals that cannot absorb similar memory price increases.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 18, 2026
WireDigiTimes and other sources report Apple to absorb RAM costs, keep $799 price