5G and WLAN: Apple’s own chips from next year – with restrictions

Apple’s long-term corporate goal is to keep as many core technologies in its own hands as possible. This has been true for SoCs and processors since the introduction of Apple Silicon. However, when it comes to wireless technology, the iPhone maker is still dependent on its suppliers – Qualcomm’s cellular modems and Broadcom’s WLAN division. But something could happen in both areas in the coming year, thanks to Apple’s own research work, which Apple is pursuing in Munich, among other places.

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As is now being said from Asia, Apple’s WLAN chips could appear in the iPad for the first time from 2025, while the fourth-generation iPhone SE should be equipped with Apple’s 5G chip. Bluetooth chips are also apparently on Apple’s agenda. According to a report by Taiwanese electronics magazine DigiTimes, work on its own Wi-Fi chips is in its final stages. The group wants these to be manufactured by contract manufacturers as usual. At least “some” iPad models for next year Components must be obtained. This will allow Apple to reduce some of its purchases from Broadcom. However, it is also estimated that it will only be installed with the iPhone 18 from 2026.

It remains to be seen what direct benefits Apple’s WLAN chips will bring. The company recently integrated Wi-Fi 16 support with the iPhone 7 thanks to Broadcom. This allows higher throughput rates if the router offers them. Apple will have to support at least this standard, and ideally (then) new standards as well. Apple’s own components can increase profitability, but also make it possible to implement new technological processes more quickly.

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5G without mmWave?

There is also new information about Apple’s new 5G modems. According to DigiTimes, initially these will include less existing technology than the Qualcomm SoCs Apple is currently purchasing. For example, this applies to mmWave technology that has been available since the iPhone 12. However, it can currently only be used in the USA – even on the iPhone 16.

It’s unclear why Apple isn’t able to implement this on its own. Since the company’s first in-house 5G modem is supposed to be in the entry-level iPhone SE model, this shouldn’t be a big deal.

(B.Sc.)