Apple is set to make a significant leap in its hardware development with the introduction of its first in-house 5G modem and a custom Wi-Fi 7 chip. This move marks a pivotal shift in Apple's strategy, aiming to reduce reliance on third-party suppliers and gain more control over its device technology.
iPhone SE 4: Pioneering Apple's 5G Modem
The fourth-generation iPhone SE, expected to launch in early 2025, is slated to be the first Apple device to feature the company's custom-designed 5G modem. This budget-friendly model is rumored to adopt a design similar to the iPhone 14, boasting a 6.1-inch OLED display, Face ID, and a single 48-megapixel rear camera.
While the iPhone SE 4 will showcase Apple's 5G prowess, it will still utilize a Broadcom Wi-Fi chip, highlighting the company's gradual transition away from third-party components.
iPhone 17 Pro: Introducing Custom Wi-Fi 7 Chip
Apple's innovation doesn't stop at 5G. The iPhone 17 Pro, anticipated in the latter half of 2025, is expected to introduce Apple's custom-designed Wi-Fi 7 chip. This development aligns with predictions from industry analysts, including Jeff Pu and Ming-Chi Kuo.
It's worth noting that the Wi-Fi 7 and 5G modem will be separate chips, contrary to earlier speculation about an all-in-one solution. This approach allows Apple to fine-tune each technology independently.
The Road to Independence
Apple's move towards developing its own modem and Wi-Fi chip technology is a strategic decision aimed at reducing dependency on suppliers like Qualcomm and Broadcom. By bringing these critical components in-house, Apple can exert greater control over its product ecosystem and potentially reduce costs in the long run.
However, the transition won't happen overnight. Analysts predict that Apple's custom modem and Wi-Fi 7 chips will achieve majority adoption in iPhones by 2027, indicating a gradual rollout across the product line.
What This Means for Consumers
For Apple users, these advancements could translate to improved performance, better integration between hardware and software, and potentially new features that leverage Apple's complete control over these crucial components.
As Apple continues to push the boundaries of in-house chip design, consumers can look forward to devices that are more tightly integrated and optimized for performance. The iPhone SE 4 and iPhone 17 Pro are just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting new chapter in Apple's hardware evolution.