By Apple might introduce two of its iPhones with its proprietary 5G modem in 2025. Renowned Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggests that the fourth-generation iPhone SE and the ultra-slim iPhone 17 model could come equipped with the company’s own 5G chipsets.
Kuo shared the latest details in a post on X, previously known as Twitter. According to the post, the iPhone SE 4 might be launched in the first quarter of 2025, whereas the ultra-slim iPhone 17 is expected to be revealed in the third quarter.
Apple’s Shift to In-House 5G Chips and iPhone SE 4 Updates
- “Apple is accelerating its move away from reliance on Qualcomm. In 2025, two new iPhone models will ditch Qualcomm’s 5G chips and adopt Apple’s in-house 5G chips: the iPhone SE4 (1Q25) and the ultra-slim iPhone 17 (3Q25),” Kuo wrote on X.
- Apple has been developing its in-house 5G modems since 2018. In 2019, the company acquired Intel’s smartphone modem division to enhance its 5G chip development. However, the project has reportedly faced numerous setbacks and delays.
- Current iPhones sold by Apple utilize Qualcomm modems for 5G connectivity. Earlier this year, Apple extended its 5G modem supply agreement with Qualcomm through 2026, indicating a gradual transition to Apple’s proprietary 5G chips.
- In related news, the Cupertino-based company plans to maintain the backplate manufacturing process for the iPhone SE 4 identical to the standard model in the upcoming iPhone 16 lineup. Additionally, it is speculated that the iPhone SE 4 may feature an updated rear camera module. Previously, it was expected to have a single 48MP camera on the back with a custom backplate.
