According to internal sources, Apple is reportedly facing issues in unveiling its own mobile modem at the beginning of 2025. Bloomberg reported this, citing individuals familiar with the matter.
Reportedly, Apple had initially planned to have the modem ready by spring 2025. However, due to development problems, it seems unlikely to meet that deadline. There have been previous reports indicating that Apple had underestimated the modem development.
For years, Apple has been using Qualcomm modems in its iPhones and iPads. Recently, Apple extended its agreement with Qualcomm for the supply of 5G modems until 2026. Apparently, at that time, Apple didn’t anticipate having its own modem chip ready anytime soon.
Apple’s previous prototypes are said not to have been up to par
According to sources familiar with the matter, it’s unlikely that Apple will be able to build a modem by early 2025 that surpasses competitors’ models. Mobile phone modems must seamlessly operate on various networks worldwide to provide device owners with an unrestricted user experience.
Earlier sources suggest that Apple’s prototypes from 2022 were technically about three years behind Qualcomm’s top model. Before extending the delivery agreement with Qualcomm, Apple’s deal was supposed to expire by the end of 2024—timed before the introduction of its own modem.
It remains unclear whether Apple will manage to introduce its own competitive modem chip before the expiration of the new agreement. The company declined to comment.
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