Apple’s long-awaited initiative to create its own cellular modem is nearing its debut. Recent reports suggest that select iPhone models in 2025 will feature the proprietary 5G silicon, but a new analysis indicates it may not match Qualcomm’s competitive offerings.
Apple’s inaugural in-house 5G modem may fall short of Qualcomm’s technology
As previously reported, Apple plans to incorporate its new 5G modem into a couple of new iPhone models in 2025:
Gurman confirms this strategy, noting that some entry-level iPads might also receive the new modem in 2025.
What stands out in his latest report is the performance specifics regarding Apple’s modem.
Mark Gurman of Bloomberg wrote:
The Sinope modem isn’t as sophisticated as the latest models from Qualcomm, meaning Apple’s first modem will offer a step down from what’s currently found in the iPhone 16 Pro.
Unlike current premium Qualcomm modems, the Sinope will not support mmWave technology, which is employed by Verizon Wireless and other carriers mainly in urban centers and can theoretically achieve download speeds up to 10 gigabits per second. Instead, Apple’s modem will depend on the Sub-6 standard, similar to what the existing iPhone SE uses.
The initial Apple modem will also be limited to four-carrier aggregation, a feature that combines bands from multiple carriers to heighten network capacity and speeds. Qualcomm’s modems can support six or more carriers concurrently.
In laboratory assessments, Apple’s first modem achieves maximum download speeds around 4 gigabits per second, falling short of the peak speeds achievable by non-mmWave Qualcomm devices.
These findings suggest that Apple’s debut modem may indeed come with its share of compromises.
More advanced Apple modems slated for 2026 and 2027
Gurman indicates that Apple ultimately aims to eliminate its reliance on Qualcomm by introducing more sophisticated successor modems in 2026 and 2027.
The 2026 modem is anticipated to be included in the entire iPhone 18 lineup and higher-end iPads, boasting “mmWave support, download speeds of up to 6 gigabits per second, six-carrier aggregation for Sub-6 frequencies, and eight-carrier aggregation for mmWave.”
In 2027, the expectation is to launch a third modem with integrated satellite capabilities, expected to outperform Qualcomm’s solutions.
DMN’s Perspective
While Apple has been focused on developing its own modems for quite some time, today’s findings aren’t entirely shocking, particularly given the identified shortcomings.
As Apple enters the modem market, it’s not surprising that its initial product may trail the competition established by Qualcomm. Nevertheless, it will be intriguing to see consumer reaction to this new component. Will it be perceived as a drawback or a unique advantage?
What are your thoughts on this announcement? Are you interested in an Apple-designed 5G modem, or would you rather stick with Qualcomm’s offerings? Share your views in the comments.
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