It appears that each iPhone 16 model is equipped with 8GB of RAM, which may pose challenges for Apple Intelligence.
An enhancement for certain individuals, yet not for all.
In anticipation of the iPhone 16 series launch, there have been rumors suggesting that all four models will feature 8GB of RAM. Although Apple typically does not disclose the RAM specifications of its devices, this assertion appears to be accurate.
According to MacRumors, with contributions from @iSWUpdates, references to 8GB of RAM for each model have been discovered in the latest iteration of Xcode 16, a development tool provided by Apple.
This would represent an increase of 2GB for the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus, while the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max would maintain the same RAM capacity as their predecessors.
An issue for AI
The latter observation is somewhat disappointing, particularly given that Apple Intelligence is expected to require a substantial amount of RAM, especially for tasks performed on the device itself. In contrast, the Google Pixel 9 series is equipped with between 12GB and 16GB of RAM to effectively manage the numerous AI functionalities present in those devices.
However, it is important to note that we cannot definitively regard this leak as confirmation that all iPhone 16 models will feature 8GB of RAM. We will need to await teardowns for verification, but it appears to be a highly plausible assertion.
Notably, Xcode files have previously provided accurate information regarding RAM specifications in earlier iPhone models. Furthermore, it stands to reason that at least the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus would possess 8GB of RAM, considering that the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus do not support Apple Intelligence, likely due in part to their 6GB RAM limitation.
This again underscores the significance of ample RAM for Apple’s AI capabilities, making it intriguing to observe whether the Pro models will feel less premium when executing AI-related tasks.
Written by: JD
