Apple’s base model iPhone 18 was previously rumored to get 12GB of RAM, but a new report claims it’s only getting 9GB instead—raising questions about support for iOS 27’s most demanding features.

Ming-Chi Kuo says A20 chip in iPhone 18 will have 9GB of RAM, not the 12GB previously rumored

If you’re interested in a base model iPhone 18, which isn’t shipping until next year, a new report might give you pause.

Ming-Chi Kuo posted the following on X today:

iOS 27 will bring tighter system-level integration with Apple Intelligence. My latest industry checks suggest Apple's lower-end 1H27 iPhones, powered by the A20 chip, will move to 9GB DRAM (1.5GB × 6 dies), up from 8GB (2GB × 4 dies) in the current A19 models, to keep the system…— 郭明錤｜Ming-Chi Kuo (@mingchikuo) June 26, 2026