Changes to the iPhone 16’s flash memory might save money, but at the sacrifice of data write speeds.
According to AppleInsider, Apple is investigating employing a lower-cost flash memory option to enhance storage capacity while saving money.
According to a DigiTimes insider, Apple is planning to convert from TLC (Triple-level cell) to QLC (Quad-level cell) for models with 1 TB or more of storage.
QLC is the most sophisticated flash memory technology available today, allowing up to four-bit writes to each memory cell to store more data.
When compared to TLC, QLC memory chips can store 33% more data in the same footprint. Furthermore, QLC chips have a lower average production cost per unit of capacity.
However, the present drawback of QLC memory chips is their longevity. QLC chips have a lower maximum total TB (TBW) than TLC chips, hence they can write less data throughout their lifespan. QLC memory chips also operate at slower rates than TLC.
As a result, iPhone 16 customers with 1 TB or more of storage may notice slower data write rates compared to devices with lesser storage capacity.
According to Wccftech, the iPhone 16 series might be the first to include this technology. This also allows Apple to offer a version with 1 TB or more of storage without dramatically raising production costs.
