Samsung Set to Supercharge Galaxy S26 with 16GB RAM Amidst Apple’s iPhone Plans

Samsung’s Memory Boost

Samsung is expected to equip its Galaxy S26 series with a standard 16GB of RAM, a significant increase from previous models. This move reflects the growing demands of on-device AI and the need for more robust multitasking capabilities.

Initially, the Galaxy S25 Ultra was the sole device to offer 16GB of RAM. However, the boosted RAM was restricted to specific markets. The improved specifications are a response to the criticism Samsung has received and aims to compete with rivals in the Chinese market.

Apple’s Stance on RAM

While Samsung is upgrading its RAM, data suggests **Apple** will keep its iPhone RAM at 12GB. Despite this, **Apple** might still deliver superior multitasking performance compared to the Galaxy S26.

Macquarie expects that the RAM capacity of the Galaxy S series will increase to 16GB in 2026.

Meanwhile, the iPhone’s RAM is expected to rise to 12GB in 2025, but remain at 12GB in 2026 as well. pic.twitter.com/bz26rbTYQR

— **Jukan Choi** (@Jukanlosreve) June 23, 2025

The anticipated increase in RAM for the Galaxy S26 could boost sales in the upcoming quarters, especially with the rising popularity of generative AI. Global smartphone sales are projected to reach 1.46 billion units in 2026, according to Statista (Statista).

iPhone RAM Expectations

The upgrade is set to be included in the iPhone 17 series later this year, though the base model might have only 8GB of memory. **Ming-Chi Kuo**, an analyst at TF International Securities, also stated that the whole iPhone 18 lineup will use 12GB RAM.

The generative AI boom has caused tech companies like **Samsung** and **Apple** to give their device hardware specifications more attention. The RAM upgrade in the Galaxy S26 range is expected to contribute to an increase in sales.