Apple is advancing its efforts to develop in-house 5G modems for iPhones and iPads, with a goal to rival Qualcomm’s technology by 2027, according to Bloomberg. Despite acquiring Intel’s modem unit in 2019, Apple’s modem development has faced technical setbacks. The company’s first proprietary modem is expected to debut in the next iPhone SE, followed by its introduction in the rumored iPhone “Slim” and entry-level iPads.
Apple plans a phased rollout, with a second-generation modem incorporating mmWave technology expected in 2026, aligning with the iPhone 18 and high-end iPads. By 2027, Apple aims to introduce the “Prometheus” modem, which could surpass Qualcomm’s offerings by supporting advanced features like next-generation satellite networks and AI-based functionalities.
New iPhone SE could be the first to ship Apple’s in-house 5G modem.
The initial modem is anticipated to offer dual SIM standby, enabling two active SIM cards simultaneously, but it may fall short of Qualcomm’s performance in specific areas. For example, it will lack mmWave support, limiting its ability to utilize the ultra-fast speeds available in some urban areas.
Additionally, it will support four-carrier aggregation instead of six, which may cap its maximum bandwidth potential. While these limitations affect theoretical peak speeds, real-world performance is typically lower and less dependent on such features.
Apple’s gradual shift to in-house modems aligns with its broader strategy to reduce reliance on external suppliers and increase control over key technologies. The transition will be pivotal in determining whether Apple can meet or exceed the industry-leading benchmarks set by Qualcomm.
