Base iPhone 17 to Retain A18 Chip and 8GB RAM, Adds Display and Camera Upgrades

According to recent research from analyst Jeff Pu, Apple’s upcoming iPhone 17 base model is expected to feature the same A18 chip currently used in the iPhone 16. Manufactured using TSMC’s second-generation 3nm N3E process, this chip suggests only a modest performance update. The iPhone 17 will reportedly maintain 8GB of RAM, aligning with the iPhone 16, despite previous speculation that Apple might opt for 12GB.

In contrast, the iPhone 17 Air and Pro models are expected to include more advanced chips — the A19 and A19 Pro respectively — built with TSMC’s newer N3P process and paired with 12GB of RAM. While the base iPhone 17 lacks these major internal enhancements, it will introduce some new hardware features, including a larger 6.3-inch display (up from 6.1 inches), a smoother 120Hz refresh rate, and a significantly improved 24MP front-facing camera, doubling the resolution of the iPhone 16’s 12MP selfie cam.

Design-wise, the iPhone 17 will largely resemble its predecessor, with minimal physical changes expected. Apple plans to reveal the full iPhone 17 lineup in September 2025. While some users may find the base model underwhelming, the new display and camera specs could still appeal to those seeking an upgraded experience without opting for the Pro versions.