This move, which is part of the company’s strategy to reduce its dependence on Qualcomm, promises a true revolution in the mobile connectivity of its devices.
Apple’s new 5G chips: they are ready
The first products to receive Apple’s new 5G modem will be available in different during the next year. The iPhone SE 4, iPad Air, and entry-level iPad are expected to hit the market in March, while the iPhone 17 Air will launch in September. Although the chip will not initially be integrated into high-end devices such as the iPhone 17 Pro, it is already a first step to test the technology.
The chip will offer download speeds of up to 4 Gbps, slightly slower than current Qualcomm modems. However, in real conditions, these differences will hardly be noticeable. Plus, Apple’s first 5G modem will not include mmWave supportthe ultra-fast standard, although it will maintain the dual SIM and dual standby functionality, something key for many users. However, this technology would arrive with the second generation, which would debut with the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max.
Despite not initially reaching the speed of Qualcomm modems, Apple’s 5G chip promises a number of significant improvements. According to Gurman, will consume less batterywill improve mobile network scanning capabilities and optimize satellite connectivity, a feature that Apple has successfully explored in its latest iPhone models.
However, the transition is not without risks. Ensuring solid performance for calls and mobile data is crucial, which is why Apple has chosen to test its new chip in lower-cost devices before rolling it out to its entire product line. The first prototypes had problems with overheating and high consumption of energy, but these problems have already been solved.
Although designed by Apple, the modem will be manufactured by TSMC, the company’s usual partner for chip production. This launch marks an important milestone in Apple’s efforts to reduce and eventually eliminate its dependence on Qualcomm.
Apple has worked on this project since at least 2018and its acquisition of Intel’s modem division in 2019 gave it a crucial portfolio of patents related to cellular connectivity. While the company has renewed its supply agreement with Qualcomm through 2027, it expects its own modems to surpass Qualcomm’s technology by that year.
A strategic change for the future
Apple reinforces its innovation and vertical integration strategy with its 5G modem. Although it will be an initial technology, it promises an improved experience for users and less dependence on third partiesensuring its leadership in mobile connectivity.
The arrival of the 5G chip in devices such as the iPhone SE 4 and the iPhone 17 Air will not only democratize access to this technology, but will also mark the beginning of a new era in the interconnection of Apple devices. This is just the beginning of what seems to be a real revolution in the world of mobile connectivity.
