Apple extended its deal with Qualcomm to 2026 earlier this year, with reports suggesting that the development of its in-house 5G modem was delayed.
Apple is set to debut its own 5G modem, which has been in development for several years, possibly as early as next year, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. The Cupertino-based tech giant is expected to replace Qualcomm’s technology with its proprietary 5G modem, starting with two iPhone models in 2025 as part of a phased adoption process.
iPhone Models With Apple Modem
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo revealed that Apple plans to use its proprietary 5G modem in the iPhone SE 4 and an “ultra-slim” iPhone 17, both expected to launch in 2025.
Kuo indicated that the iPhone SE 4 is targeted for a Q1 2025 release, while the “ultra-slim” iPhone 17, possibly called iPhone 17 Slim, could debut in Q3 2025. Both models will forgo the Qualcomm-supplied 5G modem in favor of Apple’s in-house technology. This move signals Apple’s intention to gradually phase out outsourced modems and transition to its own.
Earlier this year, Apple extended its deal with Qualcomm to 2026, reportedly due to delays in developing its in-house modem. Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon expressed satisfaction with the ongoing relationship. While the iPhone SE 4 and iPhone 17 Slim are expected to feature Apple’s proprietary 5G modem, it remains uncertain if the rest of the iPhone 17 series, also anticipated for next year, will continue to use Qualcomm’s technology.
Jeff Pu, an analyst at Haitong International Securities, previously noted that the upcoming iPhone 16 models will still rely on Qualcomm 5G modems. However, only the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max are expected to feature the latest Snapdragon X75 modem, while the standard variants will continue to use the X70 modem, which is currently employed across the entire iPhone 15 lineup.