According to reports, Apple has removed Qualcomm computers from two 2025 smartphones.

A Qualcomm 5G modem
Rumor Score is Possible
Apple has reportedly committed to using Qualcomm’s 5G iPhone modems until 2027. However, it is now ready to deliver a two-year-earlier alternative. Apple has worked for many years to develop its own 5G modems, instead of Qualcomm’s. A report says that the switch is likely to begin much earlier than March 2027, as was previously believed. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo claims that Apple will launch its own 5G modems in 2025 with a high-end iPhone and a low-end iPhone. Kuo claims that the two models will include the upcoming iPhone SE in the first quarter 2025. The other model is a slimmer iPhone 18 Pro around September 2025. This slimmer model will be a high-end flagship iPhone priced above the iPhone 16 Pro Max. If Kuo’s right, it would be unusual for Apple to introduce something new at the top and bottom of its range. This suggests that the new Apple 5G modem is functionally identical to the Qualcomm one and does not offer any enhanced features. If this is just a switch of manufacturers, then it’s unusual that Apple would only do it for two of the four iPhone models. In this case, there’s probably a mix of contractual obligations and a possible issue with ramping up enough production to meet the needs of all 4 iPhones. Apple began developing its 5G modem when it purchased Intel’s modems patents in 2019 for $1 billion. Since then, Apple has struggled to develop this technology.