Insider: Budget Android smartphones may return to 4 GB of RAM

According to the insider, the changes may affect 2027 models. For budget devices, 4 GB will become the starting amount, while 6 GB will remain in more expensive configurations. In the mid-range segment, the starting versions may be limited to 8 GB, and 12 GB will be found mainly in older models. As iXBT.com clarifies, the insider is talking about several Chinese manufacturers, but does not specify the exact brands.

One of the reasons cited is the rise in memory prices due to high demand from the AI industry. Officially, companies have not yet confirmed the transition to such configurations.

Kursiv Uzbekistan recalls the Redmi Note 14 5G for comparison: the model, presented in 2024 at a price of around $170, received 12 GB of RAM. The publication also refers to tests by Android Authority, which show that 4 GB is no longer enough for comfortable work with several applications at once. Android Authority considers 8 GB to be the optimal base for most modern Android devices, and recommends at least 6 GB for budget devices. According to Kursiv's estimate, 4 GB is still sufficient for calls, messengers, and simple programs, but when switching between applications, the smartphone will more often unload them from memory and restart them.