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2025-02-07
As Apple prepares to unveil its latest iPhone SE model next week, there is much anticipation surrounding its new features. While the iPhone SE 4 promises a variety of compelling upgrades, one particular addition is poised to make a significant impact â but itâs likely to go unnoticed by the masses. This addition involves Appleâs long-awaited in-house 5G modem, a feature that marks a significant milestone for the company. Here’s why itâs important, and why Apple may not highlight it as much as youâd expect.
Apple has always prided itself on controlling every aspect of its tech ecosystem, from hardware to software to services, ensuring that all components work seamlessly together. This has been especially true in terms of its chip designs, where the company has moved to build its own chips for iPhones and iPads, and even Macs since 2020. Now, with the iPhone SE 4, Apple will introduce its first-ever in-house 5G modem, replacing Qualcommâs long-time role in this space.
However, despite the monumental nature of this change, Apple is unlikely to make a big deal about it. The first version of this modem, due to its limited features, will still fall short compared to Qualcommâs offerings. In addition, with the higher-end iPhone 17 models likely using Qualcomm chips later this year, it could be awkward for Apple to overshadow its flagship device with a budget phoneâs new technology. As a result, the new 5G modem will likely fly under the radar, with Apple only offering a brief mention before saving the spotlight for future releases in the coming years.
What Undercode Says: Appleâs Strategic Push for an In-House 5G Modem
Appleâs shift toward an in-house 5G modem is a strategic move that has been in the works for years. The companyâs long-standing philosophy of owning its entire tech stack is now reaching the cellular modem level, an area where it has traditionally relied on Qualcommâs expertise. While Appleâs chips have long been celebrated for their performance in iPhones and iPads, the 5G modem has remained an outlier, sourced from Qualcomm.
This shift signifies Appleâs growing commitment to autonomy in tech design and manufacturing. Having its own 5G modem will eventually allow Apple to optimize its iPhones more effectively, providing better integration between hardware and software. However, the first-generation modem will not yet achieve parity with Qualcommâs best offerings, particularly when it comes to features like mmWave support, download speeds, and multi-carrier aggregation.
What makes this move interesting is Appleâs plan to roll out its modem in stages. The first iteration, expected in the iPhone SE 4, will serve as a starting point. Apple is reportedly working on two subsequent versions of the modem â one for 2026 and another for 2027 â which will gradually close the performance gap between its modem and Qualcommâs. The ultimate goal appears to be surpassing Qualcommâs technology by 2027, positioning Apple as the leader in cellular modem performance.
In terms of market impact, Appleâs decision to debut its 5G modem in the iPhone SE 4 could be a calculated move to test the waters without making too much noise. The iPhone SE, which targets budget-conscious consumers, will be an ideal platform to roll out this new technology on a smaller scale. Apple can avoid the risk of drawing attention to any limitations of the modem, which could undercut the premium appeal of its flagship devices.
While Appleâs focus on its new modem is important, there are reasons to be cautious about how much itâs promoted in the iPhone SE 4. The modem wonât support the same features or performance as Qualcommâs latest chips, making it less likely to draw attention in a product that is positioned as a mid-range device. Additionally, when the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max are released later this year, they are expected to rely on Qualcommâs 5G modems, which could present an awkward situation if Apple were to heavily promote its in-house modem in the SE model.
Despite these potential challenges, the of Appleâs in-house modem is a crucial step forward. It aligns with the companyâs broader strategy of achieving complete control over its technology ecosystem. In the future, as Apple refines its modem technology and closes the performance gap, we can expect to see the company make much bolder claims about its modemâs capabilities.
This incremental approach is typical of Apple, which often introduces new technologies gradually before fully embracing them across its product line. By the time the second-generation modem is ready for prime time in 2026, Apple will likely have ironed out any issues and will be able to more confidently tout its new tech as a competitive advantage.
In summary, while Appleâs new 5G modem is a significant achievement, itâs unlikely to be the centerpiece of the iPhone SE 4 announcement. Appleâs strategy seems to be one of gradual adoption and refinement, ensuring that its first in-house modem does not overshadow its flagship products while laying the groundwork for future advancements in iPhone connectivity. As we move into 2026 and 2027, we can expect Apple to fully capitalize on its modem technology and present it as a key differentiator in its devices.
References:
Reported By: https://9to5mac.com/2025/02/07/apples-newest-iphone-feature-will-likely-fly-under-the-radar-next-week/
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