Apple reveals its 6G modem strategy for future iPhones

Apple has been working on an in-house 5G modem for some time, but has had little success and is now reliant on Qualcomm for the 5G modem in iPhones and iPads. While the business continues to create an in-house 5G model, Bloomberg reports that it is also working on an in-house 6G modem.

According to Mark Gurman's PowerOn newsletter, the business has been working on a 6G modem since 2021. Given that 6G will not be available until at least 2030, Apple will have ample time to develop, test, and refine in-house 6G technology. This will not only make Apple self-sufficient but will also provide the company with more control over its hardware, as well as financial rewards in the long term.

Modems are tough to create, and they are a vital component of a contemporary smartphone that must be tested globally. Apple has successfully manufactured semiconductors for iPhones, iPads, Apple Watches, and Macs, with the modem being the final piece of the jigsaw.

Apple is now recruiting for a cellular platform architect who can lead and manage 6G reference architecture, prototypes, and tests to evaluate 6G technology choices.

Apple's primary 5G modem provider is Qualcomm. Despite several disagreements between the two tech titans, Apple renewed its licence with Qualcomm in September 2023, and Qualcomm will continue to provide 5G modems to iPhones until 2026.

6G is expected to be light years ahead of 5G, with ultra-low latency and faster data transmission rates. In theory, 6G could provide up to 11Gbps of uplink speed and revolutionize the way we utilize connected devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops.