Despite expectations for a major overhaul across the iPhone 17 lineup, one model appears to be falling behind - Apple’s standard iPhone 17.

According to renowned analyst Jeff Pu from GF Securities, the standard iPhone 17 will not feature a new chip but will instead reuse the A18 processor, the same one found in the iPhone 16. This chip is likely to be manufactured using TSMC’s second-generation 3nm process.

In contrast, the ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air - expected to replace the Plus model - will be equipped with the newer A19 chip, while the iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max are rumored to feature the A19 Pro chip. These chips will be built on TSMC’s more advanced third-generation 3nm process.

Jeff Pu also noted that the standard iPhone 17 is expected to retain 8GB of RAM, mirroring the configuration of the iPhone 16.

Last month, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reported that the iPhone 17 Air and Pro/Pro Max models would come with 12GB of RAM to meet the processing demands of Apple Intelligence features. He also mentioned that Apple had yet to decide whether to use 8GB or 12GB of RAM for the standard iPhone 17.

If Jeff Pu’s predictions prove accurate, the standard iPhone 17 may offer only minor improvements over its predecessor, keeping the same design and processor. However, recent leaks suggest the device might come with a larger 6.3-inch display, a 120Hz refresh rate, and an upgraded front camera jumping from 12MP to 24MP.

The iPhone 17 lineup is expected to launch in September this year.

Du Lam (PhoneArena)