If you are planning to buy a new smartphone or laptop in 2025 that will last for several years, the processor is one of the most important factors that will influence how well the device holds up over time. However, in 2025, the processor isn't the only aspect to consider; memory, technically known as random access memory (RAM), plays a crucial role as well, especially in the era of AI. Before we discuss how much RAM your next device should have, let's first understand its importance in smartphones and laptops. RAM is like your phone's or laptop's short-term memory. It temporarily stores the data and apps you are currently using so that your device can access them quickly, without reloading from scratch. When you open an app or a file, it loads and stays within RAM. With more RAM, you can run multiple apps simultaneously without slowing down your device. If the memory is full, the device may lag or become slow. Similarly, AI apps, which process large amounts of data in real time, also benefit from more memory. While it won’t be much of an issue as long as you are using cloud-based AI platforms like Gemini or ChatGPT, having more RAM is crucial, especially if you plan on using hybrid or on-device AI features. Latest iPhones now offer at least 8 GB RAM, while Macs come with at least 16 GB The iPhone 15 series consists of four devices: iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max. While the Pro models support Apple Intelligence, the standard variants do not. One reason for this disparity—despite launching on the same day—is that the iPhone 15 Pro series offers 8 GB RAM, while the iPhone 15 and 15 Plus are limited to 6 GB. The entire iPhone 16 has 8 GB of RAM and Apple Intelligence across the series. Apple has also discontinued Macs with less than 8 GB RAM. The base models of the Mac mini M4 and MacBook Air M3 now offer at least 16 GB RAM. While M-series chip-powered Macs still support the current set of Apple Intelligence features, future AI capabilities from Apple may require at least 16 GB of RAM. Pixel 9 series starts with at least 12 GB RAM Google's latest Pixel 9 series comes with a minimum of 12 GB RAM, whereas the Pixel 8 was only available with 8 GB. The more expensive Pixel 9 Pro (review) models offer 16 GB RAM. These devices provide the best Android-powered AI experiences, and the increase in RAM suggests that devices with more memory will receive the most advanced AI features. The Galaxy S25 series also offers at least 12 GB RAM Samsung’s latest Galaxy S25 series now comes with 12 GB RAM across all models, an increase from the 8 GB offered by the Galaxy S24 series. The OnePlus 13 offers up to 24 GB RAM Lastly, the OnePlus 13 (review) now offers up to 24 GB RAM, making it one of the first mainstream smartphones to do so—aside from a few limited-edition gaming phones like the ROG Phone 9 Pro. Smartphones and most modern laptops do not support memory expansion Unlike earlier devices where you could replace low-capacity memory sticks with higher-capacity ones, this is no longer possible. While smartphones have never supported memory upgrades, the latest Qualcomm- and Intel-powered PCs, as well as Macs, now lack upgradable memory. This means you will be stuck with the same amount of RAM for the entire lifespan of the device, making it crucial to choose a model with sufficient memory. How much RAM should your next phone have? While iPhones currently max out at 8 GB RAM, Android users have more choices. Budget smartphones (< Rs 15,000): At least 6 GB RAM Mid-range smartphones (Rs 15,000–Rs 20,000): At least 8 GB RAM Upper mid-range smartphones (Rs 20,000–Rs 40,000): At least 12 GB RAM Premium smartphones (> Rs 40,000): At least 12 GB RAM, with the option of higher variants Avoid being misled by RAM swap technology, which many Android manufacturers market as a feature. Ensure the device you buy has the exact amount of physical RAM as advertised. What about Macs? It’s time to stop buying Macs with just 8 GB RAM. Whether powered by an M1, M2, M3, or M4 chip, ensure your Mac has at least 16 GB RAM for longevity. If you're a coder or designer, consider higher variants with 32 GB or more RAM. How much RAM does an AI PC need? The same applies to AI PCs. During the TechDay 2024 launch event, Matej Misturik, Senior Product Manager – Global Accounts at Lenovo, highlighted that a future-ready PC should have at least 32 GB of RAM. Budget PCs (< Rs 30,000): At least 8 GB RAM Mid-range PCs: At least 16 GB RAM High-end and future-proof PCs: At least 32 GB RAM, especially if physical memory expansion is not supported. By choosing a device with sufficient RAM, you can ensure smooth performance and longevity, especially as AI-powered features become more demanding.
