Apple Prepares for In-House 5G Modem Debut in Affordable iPhones and iPads
Plenty of rumors have buzzed around Apple’s plans to develop its own cellular modem. Now, concrete details suggest a potential launch is close. Starting in 2024, Apple’s custom-designed 5G modem will appear in its budget-friendly iPhone SE, iPad Air, and entry-level iPad models.
Apple’s ambitious plan dives into newterritory as it seeks to reduce its reliance on Qualcomm modems. Prior to this transition, Apple commissioned Qualcomm to provide the modems for its iPhone line. However, with the introduction of its own 5G modems, later extending to all iPhone models by 2025.
The new modem is Brown reportedly capable of theoretical 5G download speeds reaching 4 Gbps. While
somewhat slower than Qualcomm’s flagship models, daily real-world usage speeds are generally much lower across both platforms. This suggests that Apple’s modem performance should be comparable.
The first iteration will not support mmWave 5G, the ultra-fast 5G standard used only in limited areas, impacting the AT&T and Verizon networks. Initial testing will focus on ensuring phone calls and cellular data performance are on par with Qualcomm models. Apple has undertaken extensive internal testing, placing the new modem prototypes in the hands of hundreds of employees worldwide.
Apple will likely use its new modem in its budget-friendly iPhone SE and iPad models in 2024. This approach mitigates risk by first testing the technology in less pressure, before migrating to higher-end devices like the iPhone 17 Pro models, expected in 2025. Earlier reports show that during development, Apple faced initial challenges, including overheating and excessive power consumption. These appear to be solved, clearing the way for mass production.
Beyond
, reports indicate that Apple’s own modem could surpass Qualcomm’s capabilities. While Apple’s goals remain secretly guarded, the strategy appears to be winding down a multi-year alliance with Qualcomm for 5G
the planned launch in 2024 will be closely watched by the tech world spilt
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– Which Apple devices will likely first feature Apple’s new 5G modem?
## Apple’s 5G Modem: A Closer Look
**(Intro Music)**
**Host:** Welcome back to Tech Talk. Today, we’re diving into some exciting news from Apple. Rumors have been swirling for years about Apple developing its own 5G modem, and it seems like we’re finally getting close to seeing it in action. Joining us today to break down what this means for consumers is tech analyst, Alex Reed. Welcome to the show!
**Alex Reed:** Thanks for having me!
**Host:** Let’s jump right in. Apple is poised to debut its own custom-designed 5G modem starting in 2024. What are the biggest takeaways from this news?
**Alex Reed:** This is a major move for Apple. It signifies their commitment to controlling more of the hardware and software experience within their devices. Currently, they rely on companies like Qualcomm for their 5G modems.
By developing their own modem, they aim to achieve a few key things:
* **Improved performance:** Having tighter integration between the modem and the rest of the device’s hardware could lead to faster speeds and better battery life.
* **Greater control over cost:** Developing their own modem could potentially reduce Apple’s reliance on third-party suppliers, leading to cost savings they could pass on to consumers or reinvest in further innovation.
* **Differentiation:** This could be a key differentiator for Apple products, especially in a crowded smartphone market.
**Host:** This sounds significant. So, which devices will be first to feature Apple’s new modem?
**Alex Reed:** According to reports, Apple is planning to roll out its 5G modem in their more budget-friendly models first, starting with the iPhone SE, iPad Air, and entry-level iPad in 2024.
**Host:** That’s interesting. Why start with these devices instead of their flagship models?
**Alex Reed:** It makes sense from a strategic standpoint. It allows Apple to test the technology in a wider market and gather valuable data before integrating it into their premium offerings.
**Host:** This is certainly something to keep an eye on. Thanks for sharing your insights, Alex Reed! It seems we’re entering a new era for Apple technology.
**(Outro Music)**