Apple is finally about to announce its own modem chip. What is the strategy to break away from Qualcomm and breathe new life into the world of communication semiconductors?
🟦 Apple goes its own route with its own modem chip! Challenges to change the future of communication semiconductors
It was reported that Apple will install its own modem chip in the new iPhone SE in 2025. This chip is designed as a “modem chip” that is the core of communication, and aims to in-house the part that has been used by Qualcomm so far.
Apple acquired Intel’s communications semiconductor business in 2019 and has spent more than five years developing the chip. It was initially intended for market launch in 2021, but after delays and problems in development, it is finally ready for mass production. We will start introducing our own chips starting with the low-priced iPhone SE, with the goal of overtaking Qualcomm’s technology by 2027.
🟦 Why is Apple developing its own modem chips?
There are several reasons behind Apple’s development of its own modem chips. The main reason is to reduce our dependence on other companies and give ourselves full control over our technology and supply. In particular, it is important to reduce Apple’s dependence on Qualcomm and Broadcom, which are large suppliers.
Since communication semiconductors have a direct impact on the performance and power efficiency of smartphones, a design integrated with a system-on-chip (SoC) can improve performance while reducing power consumption. In addition, there was a history of litigation with Qualcomm over patent issues in the past, and it was determined that in-house production was essential to ensure long-term competitiveness.
🟦 Summary
Apple is ushering in a new era in the communications semiconductor market through its own modem chips. It is expected to be introduced in the iPhone SE in 2025, and if this is successful, the company’s technological advantage will be further enhanced.
Apple acquired Intel’s smartphone semiconductor business for $1 billion in 2019 and has been conducting research in Munich. The practical application of our own modems over the past five years shows the difficulties of technological development and a planned strategy.
