Apple Unveils First Custom Modem Chip, Moving Away from Qualcomm

Apple has introduced its first custom-designed modem chip, marking a major shift away from reliance on Qualcomm for wireless connectivity.

A New Era of Apple Modems

The new modem, part of Apple’s C1 subsystem, will debut in the iPhone 16e ($599) and will gradually expand across all Apple devices in the coming years.

Apple’s C1 subsystem integrates modem, GPS, and satellite connectivity, enhancing battery life and network performance. However, it lacks millimeter-wave 5G—a feature Qualcomm dominates.

Tested for Global Compatibility

Apple tested its new 4nm baseband modem and 7nm transceiver with 180 carriers in 55 countries to ensure seamless global performance.

Apple’s Strategy: Full Hardware Control

While Qualcomm currently supplies 100% of Apple’s modems, the company anticipates its share will drop to 20% by 2026. Apple, however, is not aiming to compete directly with Qualcomm and MediaTek but to create customized, tightly integrated solutions for its own ecosystem.

With the C1 platform, Apple continues its push for greater hardware independence, a strategy that has already paid off with Apple Silicon chips replacing Intel in Macs.