Highlights
- Apple to introduce in-house 5G chips in iPhone SE 4 and ultra-slim iPhone 17 in 2025.
- Phased rollout allows Apple to test and refine its technology.
- Standard and Pro models will continue using Qualcomm 5G chips.
- Potential full adoption of Apple 5G chips across all iPhone models by 2026.
Apple is poised to take a significant step towards reducing its reliance on Qualcomm by introducing its own 5G chips in select 2025 iPhone models.
According to renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, this move marks a crucial milestone in Apple’s long-standing efforts to develop in-house cellular modems.
Ming-Chi Kuo, in an article on X, writes: “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).”
— 郭明錤 (Ming-Chi Kuo) (@mingchikuo) July 24, 2024
This phased adoption strategy will see Apple’s proprietary 5G chips debut in two specific models: the iPhone SE 4, expected in spring 2025, and a new ultra-slim iPhone 17 variant slated for autumn 2025.
The selective implementation suggests a cautious approach, allowing Apple to test and refine its technology before a wider rollout.
Aperture Explained
Aperture refers to the opening in a camera lens that controls how much light reaches the sensor.
It affects both exposure and depth of field.
A wider aperture (smaller f-number) allows more light and creates a shallower depth of field, while a narrower aperture (larger f-number) lets in less light but keeps more of the image in focus.
iPhone 17’s Potential Innovation
According to reports, at least one iPhone 17 model may feature a variable aperture camera.
This would be a first for iPhones, potentially allowing users to mechanically control the aperture size.
This could significantly enhance depth of field control and low-light performance, giving users more creative options in their photography.
Implications and Future Outlook
While this move signifies a major shift, it’s worth noting that other 2025 iPhone models, including the standard iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max, will continue to use Qualcomm’s 5G chips.
It’s interesting that the specialized, very thin iPhone 17 and the more affordable iPhone SE 4 both include the new processors.
It may be a sign of Apple’s faith in the capabilities of its own CPUs at various price ranges and form sizes.
Looking ahead, assuming the initial deployment goes well, we should anticipate Apple utilizing its 5G CPUs in all of the iPhone models starting in 2026 and on forward.
This action not only showcases Apple’s technological capability but also puts the corporation in a better position to govern its supply chain and perhaps improve hardware and software integration in future products.
FAQs
Which 2025 iPhone models will feature Apple’s in-house 5G chips?
Apple’s in-house 5G chips will debut in the iPhone SE 4 and the ultra-slim iPhone 17, expected in spring and autumn 2025, respectively.
Why is Apple introducing its 5G chips in a phased rollout?
The phased rollout allows Apple to test and refine its 5G technology in select models before potentially expanding to all iPhone models in the future.
Will all 2025 iPhone models use Apple’s in-house 5G chips?
No, other 2025 iPhone models, including the standard iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max, will continue to use Qualcomm’s 5G chips.
What are the implications of Apple’s move to in-house 5G chips?
This move showcases Apple’s technological advancements, enhances control over its supply chain, and could improve hardware and software integration in future products.
When can we expect Apple to use its 5G chips across all iPhone models?
If the initial deployment in 2025 goes well, Apple is expected to use its 5G chips in all iPhone models starting from 2026 onwards.
Also Read: iPhone 17 Battery: Apple To Reportedly Explore Space-Saving Innovations
Also Read: Apple’s 2025 iPhone Slim Rumoured to Feature Radical Redesign; Could Finally See an iPhone Ultra