For years now, Apple has been working on its own 5G modem with the aim of eliminating its dependence on Qualcomm, its current technology provider for mobile connectivity. The Cupertino company seeks to integrate this component into its future devices and, according to rumors, we could see the first iPhone with a 5G modem designed by Apple even in 2025.
But what implications does this movement have? We tell you everything that is known so far about this advance.
New iPhone SE in 2025
Apple is clear that its first modem must match or exceed the performance of Qualcomm chips before making the full transition. Therefore, the company is planning a strategic launch. He iPhone SE 4scheduled for early 2025, could be the first device to feature this new technology. This model, with a lower sales volume compared to the company’s flagships, will serve as a testing ground to evaluate the performance of the modem, before introducing it to the entire iPhone line.
From there, Apple plans to extend the technology to other devices throughout the same year, with the possibility that the iPhone 17 “Air” or “Slim”, which will be launched in September 2025, also integrates the company’s modem. Experts predict that Apple will ship between 35 and 40 million terminals with its 5G modem in 2025, and if all goes well, the Apple-designed chip will be the standard in 2026 and 2027.
Apple makes its own 5G chip
However, it is not all good news. According to recent reports, the first version of Apple’s 5G modem will not support the technology mmWavethe fastest version of 5G. Instead, the chip will be limited to sub-6GHza slower frequency but with greater coverage, making it more viable for widespread use, especially in rural and suburban areas. For users in the United States, where mmWave has more presence, Apple could continue using Qualcomm modems in certain models until it can integrate this capability into its own chip.
Another interesting aspect is that Apple could be developing a all in one chip that combines 5G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and GPS in one piece. However, experts suggest that this technology is not ready yet. The first version of Apple’s modem is expected not to reach Qualcomm’s level in terms of performance, but the company is looking to eventually evolve its design to save space and reduce costs, integrating multiple functions into a single chip.
Apple has faced significant difficulties in the development of its 5G modem, after years of depending on Qualcomm and unsuccessfully trying to collaborate with Intel. Although it bought Intel’s modem division in 2019, problems with the code and the need to rewrite the software have delayed the launch until 2025. Despite these challenges, Apple has a long-term vision and hopes that, over time , your 5G modem improves, allowing you to reduce your dependence on Qualcomm and lead innovation in this technology.
