The iPhone 17 could incorporate Wi-Fi chips developed by Apple.
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Apple has been working on developing its own wireless chips for a considerable time, and it seems that the moment for the transition has arrived. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo shared on X that the company will begin using its own Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chips with the launch of the iPhone 17, scheduled for the second half of next year. Additionally, Kuo supported a report indicating that the iPhone SE 4, expected in the spring of 2025, will be the first device to feature a 5G modem made by Apple.
However, the iPhone SE 4 will still use a third-party Wi-Fi chip, in this case, from Broadcom. On the other hand, the iPhone 17 will be the first model to incorporate both a modem and a Wi-Fi chip designed by Apple. Creating modems is not an easy task; Apple has been trying to move away from Qualcomm's RF modems since at least 2019, when it acquired Intel's modem division. This strategy stems from Apple’s need for more control over its supply chain, in addition to the tensions that have existed between Apple and Qualcomm.
Initially, it was thought that the iPhone 15 would be the first Apple device to incorporate the new modem; however, this goal turned out to be too ambitious. The modem was not ready in time for this year's iPhones.
The iPhone SE is also set to receive a significant upgrade, and it is expected that Apple will include more than just a new custom modem. Rumors suggest that the next model will feature an OLED display, support for Face ID, and compatibility with Apple Intelligence. Nevertheless, these advancements may lead to an increase in the device's price.
