Apple to continue to rely on Qualcomm for 5G modems in iPhones, here’s why – Times of India

It seems that Apple’s reliance on Qualcomm is set to continue for at least one more. According to a report by Bloomberg, Qualcomm has said that it will carry on taking care of modem supplies to Apple. It was earlier suggested that Apple may move to its own modems but it looks like that will have to wait.
Earlier in June this year, noted Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo had reported that Apple’s plans to use its own modems in 2023 iPhones had stalled. It was reported that Qualcomm would provide just 20% of modems to Apple in 2023. However, Qualcomm has now confirmed to its investors that 100% of modems for iPhones will be provided by the company.

Apple’s plans to use its own modems delayed

It’s not as if Apple has dropped the idea to make its own modems but it has certainly been delayed. Kuo said that Apple will continue to work on its own 5G modems but it requires more time. Apple had, in fact, acquired Intel’s modem business in 2019 and it was expected that would speed up Apple’s plans to use its own modems. When Apple acquired Intel, it got access to over 17,000 patents.
Apple and Qualcomm had been embroiled in a legal battle over patent royalty fees. However, an agreement was reached between the two companies, which will expire in 2025. Apple has been working on reducing its dependence on third-party suppliers like Qualcomm. With the M-series of processors for Mac and iPad, Apple completely cut off its dependence on Intel. Having said that, the Cueprtino-based tech giant will have to rely on Qualcomm for a longer time than expected.