Apple Intelligence in iOS 27 now requires 12GB of unified memory, leaving the standard iPhone 17 unable to run the most powerful on-device AI model. This represents the first time Apple has raised hardware requirements for its most advanced AI features, creating a tiered experience for users.

The most capable AI model will only run on iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone Air, and select iPads, Macs, and Vision Pro devices with sufficient memory. While most iOS 27 AI features continue to work on current hardware including iPhone 15 Pro, Apple's latest model demands premium hardware.

This move creates a clear incentive for users to purchase higher-end devices if they want access to the full AI capabilities. The new model specifically enables expressive voices and advanced dictation, showing Apple's strategy of tying premium features to premium hardware.