Qualcomm Extends 5G Modem Supply for iPhones Until 2026: What This Means for Apple

Highlights

• Qualcomm to be Apple’s primary 5G modem provider through 2026, pushing back Apple’s in-house chip introduction.
• Apple’s proprietary modem could debut in the iPhone 17 or 18, aligning with analyst Ming-Chi Kuo’s predictions.
• Apple’s self-designed modem might find its first home in another product line, possibly the iPad.

Despite Apple’s moves to produce its custom 5G modem chip, it seems that Qualcomm’s modems will remain a key component of iPhones for a little while longer.

Qualcomm announced the extension of their modem supply agreement with Apple until 2026, signaling that Apple’s independent modem project might be facing setbacks.

Apple’s In-House 5G Modem: A Delayed Dream

Apple’s custom 5G modem has hit a snag, pushing the timeline further down the road. This setback in Apple’s modem development journey suggests that their endeavor to become self-reliant in this sector is more challenging than anticipated.

Qualcomm anticipates that by 2026, it would be catering to just a fifth of Apple’s modem needs, hinting that Apple might finally introduce its proprietary modem with the iPhone 17 or 18 series.

Insights from the Analysts

The recent disclosures align with last week’s prediction by renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who envisioned Apple’s self-designed modem’s debut in 2025. However, the fluid nature of tech timelines suggests further changes might occur.

Some industry experts hypothesize that Apple could first test the waters by introducing its modem in another product line, perhaps the iPad, before integrating it into its flagship iPhone series.

If this speculation holds, Apple enthusiasts might witness the company’s modem sooner than the proposed 2025/2026 timeline.

The Advantages of Apple’s Modem Pursuit

An Apple-centric 5G modem design offers multiple potential benefits. It paves the way for a more efficient power dynamic by enabling the integration of the modem directly onto the System on a Chip (SoC).

Additionally, this move could significantly bolster Apple’s profit trajectory, as it would minimize the licensing fees currently funneled to Qualcomm for every iPhone unit.

The Road Ahead

While the vision of an Apple-manufactured modem is compelling, the reality is that Apple’s reliance on Qualcomm isn’t waning anytime soon.

This continued partnership will be evident with the imminent iPhone 15 series, set to be unveiled at Apple’s “Wanderlust” event today.

FAQs:

What has Qualcomm announced regarding its partnership with Apple?

Qualcomm recently confirmed that its 5G modems would continue powering iPhones until at least 2026, extending its initial deal by two years.

When can we expect Apple’s in-house 5G modem?

Based on the extended Qualcomm deal and predictions from analysts like Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple’s self-designed modem might make its debut in 2025, possibly with the iPhone 17 or 18 series.

Could Apple’s modem be introduced in products other than the iPhone?

Some industry speculations suggest Apple might initially incorporate its modem in a different product line, like the iPad, before its flagship iPhone series.

What are the potential advantages of Apple’s custom 5G modem?

An Apple-manufactured 5G modem can offer enhanced power efficiency by integrating the modem directly onto the System on a Chip (SoC). Additionally, it might lead to cost savings by cutting down the licensing fees to Qualcomm.