● Covered by 1 source · 1 reportMedium impact
Apple's switch to in-house radio chips delayed until after 2031 due to Broadcom deal
Key points
- Apple extends partnership with Broadcom through 2031.
- First modem chip, C1, launched with iPhone 16E.
- C2 chip expected to support mmWave 5G in iPhone 18 Pro.
Partnership With Broadcom
Apple has confirmed that it will expand its collaboration with Broadcom to develop and supply custom chips until 2031.
This agreement may indicate that Apple will continue relying on third-party components rather than completing its transition to in-house modem chips.
Current and Upcoming Chips
Apple's first modem chip, the C1, was introduced with the iPhone 16E, while the C1X followed for the iPhone Air and iPads.
The upcoming iPhone 18 series is expected to include the new C2 chip, which will add support for mmWave 5G technology.
Implications for Future Models
Despite Apple developing its own chips, the devices will still depend on customized third-party modems for certain functions for years to come.
Broadcom's significant role in supplying key components has been reinforced, with shares increasing by nearly 4% following the announcement.
Technological Considerations
The C1 chip is noted for being more power-efficient than its third-party counterparts but does not support mmWave 5G, which is available only in select high-traffic areas.
The technical lead of TSMC suggests they will uniquely be able to fabricate the latest-generation Apple chips, potentially leading to continued utilization of older C-series chips.
✨ This summary was generated by AI from the outlets' reporting listed below. It is not independently verified and may contain errors — check the original sources. How BrevFeed works →
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Reporting from
Apple's shift to its own cellular modems for iPhones is now projected to extend past 2031 due to an extended partnership with Broadcom. This deal suggests continued reliance on third-party chips for the foreseeable future, highlighting challenges in fully transitioning to in-house technology.