2026 Android flagships could come with 24GB RAM because of AI

Key Takeaways:

• New flagship chips will double AI computing power in smartphones.
• Manufacturers may equip 2026 Android phones with up to 24GB of RAM.
• Enhanced AI features could lead to higher smartphone prices.
• Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 and MediaTek’s Dimensity 9500 are central to this advancement.
• Advanced CPU configurations in new chips focus on performance and efficiency.

AI’s Influence Spurs Massive Memory Boost in Smartphones

As artificial intelligence continues to reshape technology, smartphone manufacturers are preparing for a significant hardware upgrade. The 2026 lineup of Android flagship phones may come equipped with an unprecedented 24GB of RAM, driven by the need to support increasingly sophisticated AI capabilities.

Qualcomm and MediaTek Lead the Charge

According to a leak from tipster Digital Chat Station, the upcoming flagship chips from industry giants Qualcomm and MediaTek are set to double the AI computing power compared to their predecessors. Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 and MediaTek’s Dimensity 9500 are at the forefront of this development, promising substantial enhancements in AI performance.

The Push for More RAM

To accommodate these advancements, manufacturers are expected to significantly increase the memory capacities of their devices. “Manufacturers are expected to equip their devices with up to 24GB of RAM to support AI capabilities,” the leak suggests. This move underscores the growing importance of AI functions in smartphones, from advanced photography and voice recognition to real-time language translation.

Economic Implications for Consumers

While the technological benefits are clear, these enhancements may come with a cost. Smartphones powered by the new Snapdragon and Dimensity chips “might come with higher price tags this year,” indicating that consumers could see a rise in prices for cutting-edge devices. The investment in more powerful hardware reflects the industry’s commitment to delivering top-tier AI experiences.

Technical Innovations Under the Hood

The technical specifications of these chips highlight a shift towards performance-oriented designs. The Dimensity 9300 is rumored to feature an octa-core CPU configuration with four Cortex-X4 cores, a departure from traditional core setups. Meanwhile, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 is expected to incorporate a mix of 1x Cortex-X4, 3x Cortex-A720, 2x Cortex-A710, and 2x Cortex-A510 cores. These configurations aim to optimize both speed and efficiency, crucial for handling intensive AI tasks.

A Glimpse Into the Future of Mobile Technology

The anticipated surge in RAM and AI capabilities in smartphones signals a transformative period in mobile technology. As devices become more powerful, users can expect enhanced functionalities that leverage AI in new and innovative ways. However, this evolution also prompts considerations regarding affordability and accessibility for the broader consumer base.

Conclusion

The intersection of AI advancement and mobile hardware is driving significant changes in the smartphone industry. With Qualcomm and MediaTek at the helm, the introduction of chips that double AI computing power could redefine user experiences. As manufacturers prepare to release devices with up to 24GB of RAM, consumers stand on the cusp of a new era in mobile technology—one that promises unprecedented capabilities but may also challenge the balance between innovation and cost.