Apple’s journey toward developing its own wireless chips has been lengthy, but the finish line may finally be in sight.
Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo recently shared on X that Apple’s transition to in-house Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chips is expected to begin with the iPhone 17, set for release in the second half of next year.
Kuo also confirmed that the iPhone SE 4, anticipated in spring 2025, will be the first Apple device to feature the company’s own 5G modem.
However, he noted that the SE will still rely on a third-party Wi-Fi chip from Broadcom, while the iPhone 17 will be the first to include both an Apple-designed modem and Wi-Fi chip.
Developing modems has proven to be challenging. Apple has sought to move away from Qualcomm’s RF modems since at least 2019, when it acquired Intel’s modem division.
This aligns with Apple’s preference for maintaining control over its technology and its strained relationship with Qualcomm.
Reports indicated that Apple initially aimed to debut its modem in the iPhone 15, but that goal proved overly ambitious, and the modem wasn’t ready in time for this year’s iPhones either.
The iPhone SE series, known for being budget-friendly, is set for a substantial upgrade, and Apple appears poised to introduce more than just a custom modem.
Rumors indicate that the SE may feature an OLED screen for the first time, Face ID, and support for Apple Intelligence. However, these enhancements may come with a higher price tag as well.
