Apple to Use Its Own 5G Chips in iPhone 17 Slim and iPhone SE 4
Solomon Thompson / 4 months ago
Apple is planning to introduce its own 5G modems next year. This move aims to reduce reliance on Qualcomm. The new chips will debut with the iPhone 17 lineup and possibly the iPhone SE 4.
Apple Developing Custom 5G Modems
Since 2018, Apple has been working on custom 5G modems. They faced delays due to technical issues. Apple’s goal is to gain independence from Qualcomm, the current supplier of 5G modems.
Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo shared that the iPhone 17 Slim and the iPhone SE 4 will feature these new modems. The iPhone SE 4 is expected in the first quarter of 2025. The iPhone 17 Slim, rumored for the third quarter, will test market response to the new technology.
Apple plans to test its 5G modems in select models first. The iPhone 17 Pro models will continue to use Qualcomm modems. This phased approach allows Apple to perfect its technology before a full rollout.
Apple’s contract with Qualcomm for 5G modems lasts until 2026. This suggests that Apple might continue using Qualcomm modems until the iPhone 18 lineup. However, the shift to Apple-designed chips will start with specific models.
