According to Mark Gurman’s latest Power On newsletter, Apple is planning to merge future modems directly into the main chipset of its devices. This means that future devices will feature a unified chipset rather than a separate A18 chipset and C1 modem; they will be combined into a single entity. However, this integration won’t occur for several years.
During the unveiling of the new iPhone 16e, Apple’s new C1 modem did not receive much attention. This marks Apple’s first proprietary 5G modem as part of a broader strategy to eventually replace Qualcomm modems in its iPhones. Currently, the first-generation modem is exclusive to the iPhone 16e and is unlikely to be included in the entire iPhone lineup.
Upcoming Modem Innovations
Gurman notes that the C2 modem is expected to debut next year in “higher-end iPhones,” followed by the C3, which aims to surpass Qualcomm modems in performance. Although the C1 has some limitations, its power efficiency contributes to the iPhone 16e achieving the best battery life among 6.1-inch iPhones.
Once Apple successfully outperforms Qualcomm, the goal is to embed their modems within the primary chipset of devices. Gurman suggests that this will enhance both cost-effectiveness and energy efficiency. Nonetheless, this development is projected to take a minimum of three years—2028 at the earliest, according to Gurman.
This advancement raises an interesting question: If Apple integrates the modem, will there be an option for a chipset without a modem? Cellular capabilities on devices like the iPad and Apple Watch currently require a separate upgrade costing between $50 and $150, depending on the model.
It would be exciting if Apple’s in-house modems allowed cellular functionality across all devices by default, but only time will reveal whether this will happen.
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