Apple's entry-level iPhone 18 may break tradition by shipping with 12GB of RAM, a 50% increase from the 8GB in current models, according to analyst Dan Nystedt. This RAM upgrade would align the base model with the 12GB found in the iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max, following Apple's shift to the A20 chip. The move suggests Apple prioritizes performance parity across its lineup, particularly as iOS 27's AI features demand more resources. Nystedt notes this could position the iPhone 18 to handle advanced Apple Intelligence tools natively, though no official confirmation exists.

The rumored split release schedule—Pro models launching in September 2025 and standard variants in early 2027—may disadvantage budget buyers. This staggered approach, paired with higher RAM costs, could pressure Apple to justify the price hike. Analysts speculate the A20 chip's efficiency might offset increased power demands, but details remain speculative.

If accurate, this spec bump would mark a rare upgrade for Apple's base-tier devices, historically reserved for premium tiers. The decision likely stems from iOS 27's expanded AI capabilities, which require robust hardware to run locally rather than rely on cloud processing. However, Apple's strategy risks alienating cost-sensitive consumers if prices rise alongside specs.

Apple typically announces iPhones in September, with iOS updates following in fall. The iPhone 18 Pro line is expected to debut alongside iOS 27 at WWDC 2025, with standard models delayed until next year. Whether the RAM upgrade materializes will depend on Apple's balancing act between performance and affordability.