Apple has finally developed its own 5G modem – Apple C1 debuts in iPhone 16e

After years of development, Apple has unveiled the C1, its first 5G modem for mobile devices. It is designed to replace the Qualcomm modems that are still used in most iPhones. The first Apple device to receive the C1 was the iPhone 16e, the latest budget iPhone that replaces the iPhone SE series.

Image Source: Apple

«Apple is expanding the benefits of its silicon with C1. C1 is the first modem designed entirely by Apple. It is the most power-efficient modem ever in an iPhone, enabling fast, reliable 5G connections. Apple chips, including the C1, use an entirely new internal design and take advantage of the advanced power management in iOS 18, delivering incredible battery life,” Apple said in a statement.

Apple’s decision to switch to its own modems for mobile devices may be motivated by a desire to reduce the costs of licensing fees it pays to Qualcomm. However, another reason may be hidden behind the phrase “this is the most energy-efficient modem ever developed for iPhone.”

As 9to5Mac reports, Apple purchased both Intel and Qualcomm modems for one generation of iPhone a few years ago. Consumers ultimately chose Qualcomm modems, and Intel sold its modem business to Apple.

Modem development is still a new direction for Apple, so the company decided to test the C1 in its latest budget iPhone rather than in its flagship phones. The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro still use Qualcomm chips.