SAN FRANCISCO, September 19, 2024 – Apple’s highly anticipated first self-designed 5G modem, a crucial component for enabling high-speed mobile internet connectivity, is reportedly lacking support for millimeter wave(mmWave) technology, according to industry publication DigiTimes. This revelation suggests that Apple may continue to rely on its existing 5G chip supplier, Qualcomm, for mmWave-enabled iPhone models, including all US versions of the iPhone 12 and newer.
The news comes as a surprise to some, as Apple has been working diligently on developing its own 5G modem since acquiring Intel’s smartphone modem business in 2019. While Apple has not officially confirmed the news, it aligns with previous reports from prominent Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who predicted the launch of two iPhones featuring Apple’s self-designed5G modems in 2025. These devices were expected to be the new iPhone SE, launching in the first quarter, and a new ultra-thin iPhone 17, debuting in the third quarter.
The lack of mmWave support in the next-generation iPhone SE, a budget-friendlydevice, is considered logical. However, the exclusion of mmWave in the ultra-thin iPhone 17 suggests that Apple may be prioritizing a slimmer design over the fastest 5G speeds.
mmWave is a high-frequency 5G band that delivers exceptionally fast speeds, but suffers from limited range andis susceptible to obstacles like walls. It is primarily used in densely populated urban areas. Sub-6GHz 5G, on the other hand, offers slower speeds but boasts greater range and penetration, making it more suitable for suburban and rural areas. While mmWave networks are becoming more prevalent, sub-6GHz networksremain more common in many countries.
Currently, all iPhones on the market utilize Qualcomm’s baseband chips for 5G connectivity. However, Kuo has predicted that Apple will gradually transition to its own chips. This move would reduce Apple’s reliance on external suppliers and potentially offer greater control over its hardware. Earlier this year,Apple extended its 5G baseband chip supply agreement with Qualcomm until 2026, giving Apple ample time to refine its own chip technology.
The absence of mmWave support in Apple’s first self-designed 5G modem raises questions about its potential consumer advantages compared to Qualcomm’s chips. While Apple’s chip may offer benefits in areas like power efficiency or integration with other components, the lack of mmWave support could be a significant drawback for users in areas with mmWave network availability.
Apple’s long-standing legal battle with Qualcomm, which began in 2017 over allegations of anti-competitivebehavior and unpaid patent fees, ultimately ended in a settlement in 2019. The development of Apple’s own 5G modem is seen as a strategic move to reduce its dependence on Qualcomm and potentially gain leverage in future negotiations.
The impact of this news on the future of Apple’s 5Gstrategy remains to be seen. While Apple’s first self-designed 5G chip may not be a complete replacement for Qualcomm’s offerings, it represents a significant step towards greater hardware independence. It remains to be seen how Apple will address the lack of mmWave support in future iterations of its 5G chipsand whether it will ultimately offer a truly compelling alternative to Qualcomm’s technology.
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