Apple has been working on its own 5G modem for quite some time, aiming to gain greater control over its hardware ecosystem. Despite their ambitious goals, progress has been slower than anticipated, with development taking much longer than initially expected. However, recent reports suggest that Apple may finally debut its custom 5G modem next year, marking a significant milestone for the tech giant.
The journey towards creating this modem began in 2019, when Apple acquired Intel’s modem division for $1 billion. This move was a clear signal of Apple’s desire to reduce its reliance on Qualcomm and produce in-house cellular components, much like its custom-designed SoCs for devices like iPhones, iPads, and Macs. Yet, the years that followed were fraught with challenges. Reports indicated that early prototypes of the modem fell short in performance, being slower and prone to overheating compared to Qualcomm’s current 5G solutions. These setbacks forced Apple to repeatedly delay the launch of its custom modem.
Recent developments, however, bring some optimism. Sources suggest Apple’s engineers have made significant strides, overcoming some of the issues that previously plagued the modem. The upcoming modem, reportedly codenamed “V59” or “Centauri,” is said to offer advanced functionality, handling not just 5G but also Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS. One of its standout features is its ability to significantly reduce battery consumption, particularly in Low Power Mode, potentially making it a game-changer for energy efficiency in Apple’s devices.
The iPhone SE 4 is expected to be the first Apple device to feature this custom modem, with a launch rumored for early 2025. Additionally, it’s believed that one model of the iPhone 17 lineup, possibly the iPhone 17 Air, will also incorporate the modem by the end of next year. However, Apple remains cautious about introducing the modem into its flagship Pro models, as performance still lags behind Qualcomm’s chips, and features like mmWave support are yet to be fully integrated.
Although it may take time for Apple’s 5G modem to roll out across its entire product range, the upcoming launch marks a significant step forward. The modem’s energy efficiency could make it particularly suitable for devices like the Apple Watch, and its development reflects Apple’s broader strategy of reducing dependency on external suppliers. For now, the long-awaited debut is on the horizon, with the iPhone SE leading the charge.