Apple plans to radically reduce its dependence on external suppliers by starting to use its own Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chips in the iPhone 17 smartphones, which are scheduled for release in 2025. The new chip, developed by the company’s engineers and manufactured using TSMC’s 7nm process technology, will support Wi-Fi 7. At the same time, Apple plans to release a 5G modem and within three years stop using Broadcom products, which annually supplies it with more than 300 million chips.
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According to well-known analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the iPhone 17 and iPhone SE 4 are also expected to introduce a new 5G module developed by Apple itself. This feature-rich chip, codenamed Centauri, will support not only 5G, but also Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and GPS, which will provide higher performance and energy efficiency. The Centauri chip is scheduled to arrive in the first half of 2025, first integrated into the iPhone SE 4 and then into the iPhone 17 Air in the second half of that year. This solution will reduce the number of components and reduce the complexity of the system, which will have a positive impact on the efficiency of Apple devices.
Among future Apple products where the new chip may be used, analysts name not only the iPhone, but also other devices that the company plans to release in the second half of 2025. In particular, this could be an updated Apple Watch, iPad, as well as a Mac with cellular support, which would be a breakthrough for the Apple computer line. Thus, Apple demonstrates its desire to ensure the deepest possible integration of all its devices, forming a single and seamless ecosystem.
For Apple, switching to its own chips promises not only economic benefits, but also strategic advantages, as the company reduces dependence on external suppliers and emphasizes the uniqueness of its products. Control over all key components, from Wi-Fi to 5G, will allow Apple to more flexibly manage production costs and better adapt to market needs.