iPhone 16 Pro May Use QLC NAND Flash Memory for Larger Storage Variants

The switch could offer more storage at a lower cost, but with potential impacts on performance and durability.

Apple is reportedly considering using Quad-Level Cell (QLC) NAND flash memory for the 1TB and potentially 2TB variants of the upcoming iPhone 16 Pro, which could make these models slower than their lower-tiered counterparts.
The QLC NAND flash memory is cheaper and takes up less space than the currently used Triple-Level Cell (TLC) NAND memory, potentially allowing Apple to offer larger storage capacities at a lower cost.
However, QLC NAND flash memory has slower read and write speeds and is less reliable than TLC NAND flash memory, which could impact the performance and durability of the iPhone 16 Pro's storage.
The switch to QLC NAND flash memory could also be related to Apple's plans to redesign the iPhone 16 Pro to accommodate a larger camera sensor, as the smaller memory chips would free up internal space.
The iPhone 16 Pro is still several months away from launch, and Apple is said to be 'actively evaluating' its decision to use QLC NAND flash memory.