For several years, Apple has been working on developing its own modem in order to reduce its reliance on Qualcomm. According to a new Bloomberg report, this transition could begin as early as 2024, with Apple also developing its own WiFi and Bluetooth chip. This would allow it to drop Broadcom as well as Qualcomm.
Apple and Qualcomm were locked in a bitter legal battle over modem chip licencing, patent, and royalty disputes. While the lawsuits were settled at the last minute, Apple has stated unequivocally that its priority is to develop its own modem technology for future iPhone and iPad devices.
To support these efforts, Apple acquired Intel’s modem business in 2019. This provided the company with access to engineering talent as well as a large collection of cellular technology standard-essential patents. Even if Apple switches to in-house modems, it will still need to licence some Qualcomm and Ericsson patents.
Apple’s new in-house modem was supposed to be released this year, but Bloomberg reports that “development snags” have pushed it back to late 2024 or early 2025.
To replace Broadcom, Apple is reportedly working on a Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip that could be released as early as 2025. It’s also working on a successor to this chip that combines the cellular modem, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth technology into a single chip. According to Bloomberg, Apple also relies on Broadcom for other iPhone components such as radio-frequency chips and wireless charging components.
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