Apple’s 5G Modem Plans: What to Expect in 2025

Apple is finally gearing up to launch iPhone models with its own 5G modem in 2025, according to a recent report. However, the performance of these modems will lag behind Qualcomm’s current offerings in the iPhone 16 series.

The Roadmap to 5G Modem Supremacy

Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reports that the iPhone SE 4, set to launch this spring, and the iPhone 17 Air, due in the autumn, will be the first to feature Apple’s in-house 5G modem. This modem has been in development since Apple acquired Intel’s modem-making business five years ago.

What to Expect from Apple’s 5G Modem

The first Apple modem will support Sub-6 5G networks, which are slower than the mmWave 5G wireless standard used by Verizon and other providers in the US. This means that the modem won’t be able to achieve the same speeds as Qualcomm’s modems, which can support six or more carriers at the same time. In lab tests, the first Apple modem has been clocked at download speeds of around 4 gigabits per second, which is slower than Qualcomm’s top speeds.

Will Consumers Notice the Difference?

It’s unlikely that consumers will notice the drop-off in performance, as the difference is relatively small and networks typically don’t provide speeds close to the maximum theoretical speeds. The iPhone SE range often includes components that are inferior to flagship generations of the iPhone, so this slight drop-off is not unexpected.

A Temporary Measure?

Gurman reports that this is a temporary measure, with Apple’s 2026 and 2027 modems expected to get closer to Qualcomm-level capabilities. So, while the first Apple modem may not be the most advanced, it’s likely that future iterations will catch up.

What Does This Mean for Consumers?

For now, consumers can expect the iPhone SE 4 and iPhone 17 Air to offer 5G connectivity, although with slightly slower speeds than Qualcomm-powered devices. As Apple continues to develop its 5G modem technology, we can expect to see improvements in future iPhone models.