Google’s upcoming Pixel 11 lineup might come with less RAM than its predecessors, according to leaked specifications. An ongoing global RAM shortage seems to be behind this change.
Leaked specs from MysticLeaks, reported by The Verge, indicate that the standard Pixel 11 could start with just 8GB of RAM, down from 12GB in the current Pixel 10. This feels like a setback, especially since Google has been emphasizing AI features that usually require more memory.
What’s Causing the Downgrade?
The problem stems from a well-known global shortage of LPDDR5X RAM chips, which are used in high-end Android phones. Think of RAM like your workspace; the bigger it is, the more tasks you can manage at once. A shortage of materials means phone manufacturers must either use older, smaller versions or settle for what’s available.
Google isn’t the only company affected. The smartphone industry as a whole is feeling the pinch, forcing manufacturers to make tough decisions about where to cut back. For Google, this could mean launching a flagship phone with specs that resemble a mid-range device from a couple of years ago.
The Pixel 10 started with 12GB of RAM across most models. This was seen as a serious commitment to giving phones enough memory for Gemini (Google’s AI assistant) and other on-device AI tools without slowdowns. Dropping to 8GB on the Pixel 11 would reverse that progress.
The Fold’s Impact
It’s not just the standard Pixel 11 being affected. A separate leak from Android Authority suggests that the Pixel 11 Pro Fold — Google’s premium foldable phone — might also see a battery downgrade compared to its predecessor. Foldable phones already face challenges due to their design, so any reduction in battery life will stand out, especially for users who rely on all-day performance.
| By The Numbers | |
|---|---|
| Pixel 10 starting RAM | 12GB |
| Leaked Pixel 11 starting RAM | 8GB |
| RAM difference | 33% less |
| Leak source | MysticLeaks (via The Verge) |
| Expected Pixel 11 announcement | Late 2025 / Early 2026 |
Why This Matters for AI Phones
The timing is awkward for Google. Over the past two years, the company has promoted the Pixel line as the go-to choice for on-device AI. Features like Gemini Live, real-time call screening, and photo editing run directly on the device rather than in the cloud, and these tasks can consume a lot of RAM. Running a large language model locally requires significantly more memory than basic tasks like browsing or texting.
Apple’s iPhone 16 comes with 8GB of RAM to support its AI features. However, Android’s AI applications, especially Google’s, generally demand more memory. Dropping to 8GB could slow down some Pixel 11 AI features, move processing to the cloud (which needs an internet connection), or even limit features on the base model.
What This Means for You
If you’re thinking about upgrading to a Pixel 11, here’s what to expect: an 8GB model should handle everyday tasks like calls, social media, and streaming just fine. However, you might notice lag when using heavy AI features or multitasking aggressively. Switching between multiple apps quickly, running Gemini while editing photos, or using real-time translation might feel slower compared to the Pixel 10.
For most users, 8GB is still plenty of RAM. But if you’re considering a Pixel for its AI capabilities, this downgrade is something to think about before making a purchase.
Community Reactions
“So Google spends two years telling us their AI needs more RAM, then ships a phone with less RAM. Makes total sense.”
“8GB in 2025/2026 for a ‘Pro’ AI phone is embarrassing. This isn’t a budget device.”
What To Watch For
- Official Google announcement: Google usually reveals new Pixel hardware in the fall. Expect an official confirmation — or denial — of these specs as we near the anticipated late-2025 launch.
- RAM shortage updates: Industry analysts are monitoring whether LPDDR5X supply improves in time for final production runs. If conditions get better, Google might adjust configurations before the phone ships.
- Pixel 11 Pro specs: So far, leaks have mainly focused on the base Pixel 11. Keep an eye on whether the Pro model retains 12GB or also faces a downgrade, which could signal how serious the shortage really is.
- Competitor responses: Samsung and OnePlus are dealing with the same shortage. Their choices for memory configurations in upcoming flagships will reveal whether this is a universal trend or specific to Google.
Ava Mitchell
Ava Mitchell is a digital culture journalist at Explosion.com covering social media platforms, streaming services, and the creator economy. With 4 years reporting on TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and the apps that shape daily life, Ava specializes in explaining platform policy changes and their impact on everyday users. She previously managed social media strategy for a tech startup, giving her firsthand experience with the platforms she now covers.
