Apple’s long-standing ambition to design its own 5G modem is finally nearing reality, with the chip expected to debut as early as next year.
The project, which began back in 2018, is a critical step in Apple’s strategy to minimize its reliance on outside suppliers, particularly Qualcomm, which currently powers iPhones’ cellular connectivity.
After years of development and key acquisitions, such as its 2019 purchase of Intel’s modem business, Apple is now on the verge of launching its first device equipped with its own 5G technology.
Industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo predicts Apple’s in-house 5G chip shipments will hit 35-40 million units in 2025, with rapid growth expected in subsequent years. The first iPhones featuring Apple's modem are anticipated to include the fourth-generation iPhone SE and an ultra-thin iPhone 17, both slated for release in 2025.
Apple’s journey toward developing its own 5G chip was bolstered by its 2019 acquisition of Intel’s smartphone modem business. While it’s unclear whether Apple's modem will outperform Qualcomm's, the shift represents a significant strategic move for the company.
Although Apple extended its modem supply agreement with Qualcomm through 2026, the long-term goal is clear: greater control over its technology and a reduced dependency on external suppliers.
