Highlights
- Apple plans to introduce its custom Wi-Fi chip in at least one iPad by 2025.
- Its in-house 5G modem in the iPhone SE 4 is also expected in 2025.
- Apple aims to replace Qualcomm’s chips with its in-house chips entirely by 2027.
Apple has been working on its very own 5G and Wi-Fi chips for years. A recent report now suggests that 2025 could be the year when we finally see the results of Apple’s labour.
According to a new report published in Digitimes, Apple plans to introduce its custom Wi-Fi chip in at least one iPad by 2025. Also, the iPhone SE 4 is also expected to be the first Apple device to feature the Cupertino giant’s in-house 5G modem.
Written by Jay Liu and Eifeh Strom, the Digitimes report is in line with earlier predictions from analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.
Kuo earlier suggested that the iPhone SE 4 and the iPhone 17 Air would be the first devices to include Apple’s new 5G chip.
Now, on Apple’s in-house Wi-Fi chip, the Digitimes report reveals, “Insiders from Apple’s supply chain suggest that the company may introduce its in-house Wi-Fi chip in new iPads in 2025. Alternatively, Apple might choose to debut it in certain iPhone 18 models in 2026.”
As for Apple’s in-house 5G modem, the report specifies, “Apple is poised to equip iPhones with its self-developed 5G modem by 2025. The latest iPhone SE is expected to be the first recipient, potentially arriving as early as the first half of 2025, followed by select models of the iPhone 17 series in the second half of the year.”
In the coming years once Apple’s in-house chips are released, Apple intends to roll out the new modem for its entire lineup. The plan is to eventually phase out Qualcomm’s chips from Apple products.
Certain media reports hint that Apple’s internal plan is to replace Qualcomm’s chips with its in-house chips entirely before 2027 when the agreement with the company ends.
The news that Apple is developing its in-house 5G chip has been circulating for a while now. However, this is probably the first public confirmation about when the in-house chips are expected to be released.
It is important to note that the specific advantages of Apple’s Wi-Fi chips are still unclear. There is a little chance that it could be just about reducing costs.Experts believe that Apple could introduce advanced Continuity features that work more smoothly and efficiently. Moreover, there’s also speculation that Apple plans on reviving its AirPort router line with its own Wi-Fi technology in future.
As of now, we have little confirmation about the potential benefits the in-house chips will bring to Apple’s devices. But as 2025 approaches, we can expect more details to emerge soon.
M4 MacBook Air and Base iPad Display Panels Ship Soon, Early 2025 Release Likely
In a new subscribers-only post on X, display analyst Ross Young reports on two forthcoming Apple products.
He says that display panel shipments for the new M4 MacBook Air and a refreshed 10.9-inch iPad are expected to start in October.
This would comprise both the 13-inch and 15-inch Air models.
Panel shipments indicate that the release might happen a few months ahead of the products going on sale.
This suggests an early 2025 release date for these new devices.
This report aligns with previous expectations for the MacBook Air, which Mark Gurman has said is set for Q1 2024.
Rumors have indicated that Apple would update its full iPad lineup this year.
Back in May, we saw new iPad Pro and iPad Air models.
An iPad mini 7 is expected to debut next month, along with the base-model iPad.
Now it looks like the standard iPad might have to wait a few extra months, or Apple is planning multiple revisions to the iPad—one coming in October and another in the spring as an alternate SKU.
Young has a good track record with display-related reporting.
Next-Gen iPhone SE (2025): Quick Specs
| Camera | Single rear camera setup with a 48MP sensor (up from 12MP) |
| Processor | A18 chip, debuting with the iPhone 16 series |
| RAM | Either 6GB or 8GB RAM |
| Display | 6.06-inch OLED panel with 60Hz refresh rate |
| Face ID | Replacing the circular Touch ID sensor |
| Port | USB Type-C instead of Lightning connector |
| Design | Flat aluminum frame, glossy back panel, Action Button instead of Mute Switch |
| Expected Price | Potential increase of up to 10%: Launch price could be $469 or stay at $429 |
FAQs
Q1. When will Apple introduce its custom Wi-Fi and 5G chips?
Answer. According to recent reports, Apple plans to introduce its custom Wi-Fi chip in at least one iPad by 2025. Additionally, the iPhone SE 4, expected to be released in 2025, will be the first Apple device to feature the company’s in-house 5G modem.
Q2. What is Apple’s long-term plan for its in-house chips?
Answer. As per recent rumours, Apple aims to phase out Qualcomm’s chips from its products entirely by 2027, replacing them with its in-house chips.
Read More: Is iPhone SE 4 Coming Earlier Than Expected with iPhone 16 Rumors Amid Low Stock of Current Model?
Read More: iPhone SE 4th Gen: A Cost-Effective Alternative to the iPhone 16
Read More: iPhone SE 4 Rumored to Feature OLED Display, A18 Chip; Could Cost Higher Than Expected
Join MyMobile WhatsApp Channel
