Apple reveals plans for a major change to iPhone features.
Apple is evaluating a similar strategy for a key component that allows iPhones to function as phones.
Apple has historically implemented a policy of consolidating its hardware supply chain, prioritizing the use of in-house components. A notable shift in this strategy was the transition from Intel processors to its own microchips in the M series. Now, the company is considering applying a similar approach in a fundamental area for the operation of iPhones: the cellular modem.
According to information from Mark Gurman, Apple plans to incorporate its own modem into iPhones and iPads starting next year. This development will take place over a three-year period, focusing on three generations of modems, in order to reduce its dependence on Qualcomm. The first version of this internal modem, known as Sinope, will be introduced with the launch of the iPhone SE 4 in 2024. Additionally, it is rumored that this model will feature a more modern design, moving away from the old Touch ID aesthetic and wide bezels, and will include an upgraded processor and support for Apple Intelligence.
The new modem is also expected to be incorporated into the iPhone 17 Slim (also referred to as Air), a significantly thinner model that will be launched in late 2025, as well as in the low-end versions of the iPad, likely in the next update. Currently, the iPhone 15 uses cellular hardware from Qualcomm.
Regarding performance, it is important to note that the Sinope modem will not be the fastest on the market, especially in comparison to Qualcomm’s offerings. This modem will be limited to the sub-6GHz band and will not support mmWave 5G, which theoretically can reach speeds of up to 10Gbps. However, the sub-6GHz band is essential for the global deployment of 5G, especially in developing countries, due to its better coverage and signal penetration capabilities.
The new modem will also offer more limited carrier aggregation, allowing for the combination of fewer frequency blocks compared to Qualcomm modems. Preliminary tests show that Apple's modem achieves a maximum download speed of around 4 gigabits per second, although in real-world conditions, speeds are likely to be significantly lower. Nonetheless, Apple plans to include a dual SIM and dual carrier service for its modem.
One of Apple's innovations will be to integrate its modem more deeply with its existing silicon. This component will be produced by TSMC, its usual partner, and will be designed to work together with Apple's A processors, thereby improving energy efficiency and connectivity capabilities.
Looking ahead, Apple plans to introduce an updated modem called Ganymede in the iPhone 18 and in premium iPads to be released in 2027. This new device will be compatible with mmWave 5G and will offer better carrier aggregation. In a longer-term horizon, the company aims to fully integrate the modem into the main board by 2027, with a model called Prometheus, which is projected to surpass the current capabilities of Qualcomm in terms of performance and satellite connectivity.
Interestingly, this push in modem development by Apple emerged after the recruitment of talent from Qualcomm. In 2019, the company acquired Intel's mobile modem division, although its initial efforts faced technical hurdles that led to various delays. In a humorous tone, Cristiano Amon, president of Qualcomm, mentioned in a recent interview that he found it unlikely that Apple would develop its own modem in the short term, reaffirming Qualcomm’s confidence in continuing to be their supplier.
