Working memory (RAM)

Main memory of a device

The working memory or main memory of a computer or smartphone is a physical data storage (hardware). The abbreviation RAM stands for random access memory. The larger the RAM, the faster and smoother applications (programs, mobile apps) run on the mobile device. The memory size is typically specified in gigabytes (GB).

Current RAM sizes

Just a few years ago, users had to be satisfied with RAM of 1 or 2 GB. However, these times are over. Here are some memory sizes of newer smartphone models.

What do SDRAM and LPDDR mean?

The abbreviation SDRAM stands for “Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory”. It describes a semiconductor memory technology. SDRAM modules are known as memory banks that can be attached (plugged in) to designated slots on the motherboard of desktop computers, for example.

In the case of main memory for mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets, manufacturers have to focus on a particularly compact design and low energy consumption for design reasons. For this reason, particularly power-saving SDRAM has been developed under the name LP-SDRAM (LP = low power) especially for use in mobile devices.

DDRin turn stands for “Double Date Rate”, a transfer technology that improves the transfer rates between individual memory components. LP-SDRAM modules with DDR are consequently called LP-DDR-SDRAM. This very complicated designation is commonly shortened to LPDDR. The currently (2023) fastest standard is LPDDR5.

Working memory vs. internal memory

The working memory should not be confused with the internal memory, which is used for data storage and backup.