Apple is now looking to debut its own 5G modem technology in some of its 2025 models, gradually replacing its standard Qualcomm technology. The replacement was reportedly leaked by prominent TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.
Only two iPhone models "ultra-slim" iPhone 17 and the iPhone SE 4-are expected to employ Apple's rumored proprietary 5G modem. Both are expected to be on sale in 2025.
The analyst states that Apple plans to release the iPhone SE 4 in Q1 2025 and that the rumored "ultra-slim" iPhone 17, also known as the iPhone 17 Slim, may make its public debut in Q3 2025. The expert stated that neither of the next two iPhone models will make use of the 5G modem provided by Qualcomm.
According to Kuo, Apple intends to gradually stop using the contracted modems with this action as it gets ready to switch to using its internal technology.
Only the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max may include the newest Snapdragon X75 modem, according to a previous allegation made by analyst Jeff Pu of the investment firm Haitong International Securities.
The other iPhone 16 models are expected to continue using Qualcomm 5G modems. It is reported that the X70 modem, which enables cellular operations across the whole iPhone 15 lineup, is still present in the base models.
iPhone 17 Rumors
All models of Apple's iPhone 17 are reportedly going to use LTPO displays. ProMotion, which was formerly exclusive to Pro models and offers smoother scrolling and animations, is made possible by this technology. Furthermore, the always-on display is presently only available on Pro models-might be made common.
There are rumors that even bigger improvements are planned for the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max. When paired with the state-of-the-art 3-nanometer A19 Pro CPU, a 12GB RAM upgrade is claimed to give unmatched performance. The triple 48MP camera system also promises to achieve new heights in photography and cinematography.
The iPhone 17 Slim is expected to take the place of the Plus model, according to Ice Universe, a Weibo leaker who has previously made precise calls on many tech gadgets.
AI on iPhone SE 4
According to some rumors, Apple's version of artificial intelligence, known as Apple Intelligence, will also be accessible on the company's entry-level iPhone SE 4th generation handsets.
It was disclosed that the A18 Bionic SoC, which powers the aforementioned devices, would enable this through the use of Apple's most recent chipsets.
Connecting the dots between the two stories indicates that Apple Intelligence is making its way into the low-cost smartphone. A prior rumor from well-known leaker Ice Universe stated that Apple will equip the iPhone SE 4 with the A18 chipset.
Since it's probable that Apple won't include AI in the iPhone SE 4 and will instead simply employ the A16 chipset, there are currently no confirmations or more solid proof supporting these reports.