Apple iPhone Modem Ready for Launch

if this will lead to Apple integrating cellular connectivity into its laptops.

According to a recent report from Bloomberg, Apple is gearing up to replace Qualcomm’s modems in the upcoming iPhones with a three-stage plan. The first phone expected to receive this update is the 2025 iPhone SE next summer. Apple is optimistic about its technological advancements and aims to surpass Qualcomm’s modems with an even more advanced version by 2027.

Initially, Apple had hoped to implement this change as early as 2021 but faced setbacks that have delayed the project until 2025. To support this initiative, Apple has invested around $1 billion to acquire Intel’s modem group and has hired additional engineers to develop its modems.

Qualcomm currently generates about 20% of its revenue from Apple through modem sales but is exploring other revenue streams, such as its newly launched laptop chips.

The first version of Apple’s modem is set to debut in 2025 with the iPhone SE acting as a testing platform. Apple decided against launching it in their mainline phones initially to avoid any potential issues. While this first-generation modem won’t support mmWave technology like Qualcomm’s, it will still offer fast speeds of up to four gigabits per second, suitable for most users.

The Apple modem is expected to be more energy-efficient with enhanced satellite connectivity features, further consolidating Apple’s leadership in this area. In 2026, the second-generation Apple modem is anticipated to compete more evenly with Qualcomm and will likely be integrated into high-end iPads and the iPhone 18 series. By 2027, Apple’s third-generation modem could exceed Qualcomm’s offerings in terms of power. There is also speculation about Apple expanding cellular connectivity to its laptops in the future.