Apple is reportedly gearing up to introduce its long-anticipated series of cellular modem chips, marking a major step towards reducing its reliance on Qualcomm. According to Bloomberg, the custom-designed modem will debut in the iPhone SE, the tech giant’s entry-level smartphone, which is expected to receive its first update since 2022.
The modem project, over five years in development, represents Apple’s ambition to ultimately surpass Qualcomm’s technology by 2027. The move follows Apple’s 2019 acquisition of Intel’s modem division for $1bn, a strategic investment aimed at bolstering its chip design capabilities. Apple has since faced significant challenges, including engineering hurdles and concerns about internal motivations, but adjustments in management and the recruitment of top talent, including engineers from Qualcomm, have propelled the project forward.
A gradual rollout of Apple’s modem technology
The first iteration of Apple’s modem code-named “Sinope” will initially feature in lower-end devices like the iPhone SE and select iPads. These early deployments allow Apple to test its technology in products with less risk of reputational damage compared to premium devices like the iPhone Pro series.
Apple’s initial modem is reportedly expected to lack some of Qualcomm’s most advanced capabilities. Unlike Qualcomm’s latest models, Sinope will not support mmWave 5G, a technology that enables ultra-fast data speeds in major urban centres. Additionally, it is likely to support four-carrier aggregation, whereas Qualcomm’s modems handle six or more carriers simultaneously, resulting in faster and more stable connections. However, Apple plans to address these limitations in future generations of its modems.
The second-generation chip code-named “Ganymede” is expected to launch in 2026 and bring mmWave capabilities alongside improved download speeds of up to six gigabits per second. By 2027, Apple aims to release its third-generation modem, “Prometheus,” which will integrate advanced artificial intelligence (AI) features and next-generation satellite connectivity.
The modem project is part of Apple’s broader effort to gain control over critical components in its devices. Alongside its custom processors, Apple has developed a radio frequency front-end system, code-named “Carpo,” which will complement its modems. The company will reportedly continue working with existing suppliers, such as Skyworks Solutions and Broadcom, for other connectivity components.
Qualcomm, meanwhile, has anticipated Apple’s gradual transition away from its technology. While the San Diego-based company still earns over 20% of its revenue from Apple, it has been diversifying into new markets, including laptops and AI-powered data centres. Qualcomm recently extended its supply agreement with Apple until 2026, ensuring continued collaboration as Apple phases in its modems.
Apple is also said to be in talks about merging its modem and main processor into a single component. In September, reports surfaced that its latest iPhone 16 features the A18 chip, which leverages Arm’s latest next-generation V9 chip technology.
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