Apple to gradually switch Qualcomm modems with its own

Apple is making its way to switch from Qualcomm with in-house modems for future iPhones. However, this will happen gradually according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman.

He says that Apple is working on a new modem and pouring billions of dollars to phase in a new solution that will work in synergy with next-gen iPhones. Thus, gradually turning its back on Qualcomm, which currently supplies these network chips.

Gurman mentioned that this matter has become crucial for the Cupertino-based tech company and it is making all efforts to get a positive result in this segment.

The in-house may directly lead to cost savings. The company is purchasing all network chips from Qualcomm, which counts in millions for each new model. However, producing that chip or designing it with an A-series processor would cut some spending. Still, there’s no clue how much it aims to save as an outcome.

In 2019, Qualcomm won a patent infringement case against Apple. A jury found that the iPhone maker had infringed Qualcomm’s patent rights and led a decision in the chip company’s favor. Afterward, both companies settled the matter and started doing business. That has also enabled Qualcomm to farm multi-year contracts with Apple.

In September 2023, both companies announced agreement expansion for 5G modem for iPhones through 2026 (around iPhone 18). A previous report suggests Apple could introduce its in-house modem with the iPhone 17 Slim next year. The rest of the models – standard, Pro, and Pro Max will use Qualcomm.

This new model will debut with moderate features, instead, it will focus on aesthetics and design. In other words, this iPhone won’t focus on performance.

If everything goes fine, Apple could make this switch more appearance with iPhone 18. In the meantime, iPhone 16 is making its way to the launch in September and it will still be using Qualcomm modem.