After buying Intel's 5G modem division in 2019, Apple's goal of equipping its own 5G modems for iPhones to reduce its dependence on Qualcomm is about to become a reality.
In a report citing supply chain sources, noted analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said Apple’s plans to produce its own 5G modems are moving forward. The company is expected to ship 35-40 million devices with its own 5G modems next year, rising to 90-110 million units in 2026 and 160-180 million units in 2027. Kuo added that this development could hurt Qualcomm’s licensing revenue and shipments of 5G modem chips.
The iPhone SE 4 will be a testbed for Apple's own 5G modem.
Back in July, Kuo said that Apple would launch two iPhone models with its own 5G modem in 2025. These models include the iPhone SE 4, expected to launch in the first quarter of 2025, and the ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air, which could launch in the third quarter of 2025.
Apple has always aimed to have complete control over its hardware ecosystem. Developing its own modem would give the company more design autonomy, potentially allowing for better integration between iPhones and their cellular connections.
There are also rumors that Apple plans to combine the 5G modem with the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chips into a single, streamlined component, which could improve battery life and overall device efficiency.
Apple is looking to reduce its dependence on Qualcomm.
As for Qualcomm, the chipmaker has a licensing agreement with Apple until March 2027. However, if Mr. Kuo's prediction is correct, Qualcomm could face a significant decline in sales as Apple ramps up production of its own modems.
Despite many challenges, Apple's self-developed 5G modem seems to be progressing rapidly and promises to change the smartphone connectivity market in the coming years.
Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman recently reported on his Power On newsletter that inventory levels for many Apple products are running low at retail stores. Depleted inventory is often a sign of things to come, though not always.
An iPhone SE 4 render .
First, Apple seems to be running out of underrated FineWoven cases and straps. Hopefully that means this fabric accessory option.
Additionally, inventory is low for non-FineWoven Apple Watch bands, suggesting that new bands may be coming soon. Apple Watch and AirPods inventory is also depleted, which is understandable since Apple is expected to introduce new Apple Watch Series 10 and AirPods at its upcoming event.
Apple's retail stores also have low inventory levels for a variety of iPhone models, including not only the iPhones that will be discontinued when the iPhone 16 lineup is announced, but also the iPhone SE.
This typically indicates an imminent refresh, which makes sense given that the iPhone SE 3 was released more than two years ago. This has led many to suspect that the iPhone SE 4 will be released as early as next week.
