Samsung Developing Faster RAM for iPhone AI
Samsung is advancing the landscape of smartphone technology by developing high-speed RAM specifically designed to enhance the performance of iPhones. This new RAM technology not only aims at increasing the overall processing speed and multitasking capabilities of iPhones but also seeks to optimize performance for AI-driven applications. With these enhancements, users can expect smoother experiences in gaming, video editing, and running complex AI algorithms. As iPhone users increasingly rely on machine learning and artificial intelligence, Samsung's innovative RAM development could redefine the boundaries of mobile performance, setting a new standard for user experience.
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Samsung Developing Faster RAM for iPhone AI
Apple and Samsung are working on a new design for the random access memory (RAM) intended for the iPhone, with the goal of boosting the performance of Apple Intelligence.
RAM is an essential component for artificial intelligence functions, as it is crucial for supporting intensive calculation and real-time data management processes. This is why Apple had to, somewhat reluctantly, integrate a minimum of 8 GB of RAM into its new iPhones and Macs—a move that no one will complain about, given the company's historical frugality in this regard.
RAM at the Center of the Issue
However, Apple is not done addressing the RAM issue for AI. Samsung, one of the most important component suppliers for the iPhone, is reportedly working on significant changes to the RAM design on behalf of the manufacturer, according to the site The Elec. Apple plans to transition to a new RAM design starting in 2026, specifically for the "iPhone 18.".
The current design, "package-on-package" (PoP), has been used since the iPhone 4. In this configuration, the memory is placed directly on top of the System-on-Chip (SoC, such as the A18 chip), which offers the advantage of compactness but limits performance due to the reduced number of input/output pins. These constraints pose a problem for AI functions, which require very fast data transfers and the widest possible bandwidth.
To address this, Samsung is working on a new design where the RAM is installed "beside" the SoC; this discrete packaging will allow for increased bandwidth and improved thermal dissipation. However, this change will force Apple to reorganize the internal layout of the iPhone components, possibly requiring the reduction of the SoC or battery size. Ultimately, this will enable Apple Intelligence to perform better without necessarily adding more RAM.
Next-Generation LPDDR6 Memory
Samsung is also working on a new LPDDR6 memory technology specifically for Apple. This technology is expected to offer data transfer speeds two to three times higher than the current LPDDR5X. This new generation of LPDDR6, developed with the help of SK Hynix, could become a standard.
