iPhone SE 4, Ultra-Thin iPhone 17 to Debut with Apple’s Own 5G Chip, Says Kuo

Ming-Chi Kuo reports that Apple will introduce the iPhone SE 4 and an ultra-thin iPhone 17 in 2025, both featuring an Apple-designed 5G chip.

Apple Nears Completion of 5G Modem Project

It has been speculated that Apple has been working on its very own 5G modem for iPhones since the year 2018, but the project has apparently been plagued by a great deal of difficulty and development delays. On the other hand, it appears like the project is finally moving closer and closer to being finished, .

Ming-Chi Kuo, a well-known Apple supply chain analyst, stated in a brief article that was published on social media platform X today that two iPhone models that will be released in 2025 will include an Apple-designed 5G modem. These models will include a fourth-generation iPhone SE in the first quarter of the year and an all-new, ultra-thin iPhone 17 model in the third quarter.

Qualcomm Modems Currently in Use

MacRumors reports that Qualcomm modems are installed in every single iPhone that Apple is now selling, and these modems are responsible for providing cellular connectivity.

When Apple said earlier this year that it would be extending its 5G modem supply arrangement with Qualcomm for iPhone launches through 2026, it is likely that the shift to Apple's own in-house 5G semiconductors will be gradual and take place over a period of several years.

As part of its efforts to create its own 5G chip, Apple obtained the majority of Intel's smartphone modem business in 2019.

Consumer Benefits of Apple's 5G Chip Unclear

This acquisition took place in 2019. Although it is unclear whether Apple's chip would offer consumers any advantages over Qualcomm's modems, it would lessen Apple's dependence on Qualcomm.

In 2017, Apple filed a lawsuit against Qualcomm, alleging that the company engaged in anticompetitive tactics and had royalties that were not paid.

2019 saw the conclusion of the case between the two firms.