Apple takes on Qualcomm with its new C1 cellular modem: All the details

Apple C1 modem

Apple’s first-ever custom-designed cellular modem chip is finally a reality, as the Cupertino-based tech giant has unveiled what it calls C1, its first-ever in-house cellular modem. The chip, which Apple says is the most power-efficient modem in a phone, is manufactured in a bid to end the reliance on Qualcomm’s 5G chips. The new C1 modem debuts in the iPhone 16E, Apple’s latest entry-level model that replaces the iPhone SE lineup.

Apple C1 chip: All the details

The C1 modem chip is the culmination of Apple spending billions of dollars over the last few years, in a bid to reduce its reliance on Qualcomm for sourcing 5G connectivity modems. This new chip is in development following the company's acquisition of Intel's modem business in 2019.

However, while the C1 supports standard 5G connectivity, it notably lacks millimeter wave capabilities found in Qualcomm's chips, where its absence may result in slower download and upload speeds, at least on paper. Nonetheless, Apple executives confirmed plans to expand C1 usage across their product lineup for the future after the modem was tested with 180 carriers across 55 countries to ensure it supports all major global cellular networks.

Further, according to Johny Srouji, Apple's senior vice president of hardware technologies, the C1 subsystem is the company's most complex technology yet, combining a 4-nanometer baseband modem with a 7-nanometer transceiver. This is said to result in extraordinary battery life on the new iPhone 16E, with a promise of up to 26 hours of video playback.