Apple is developing an improved version of its C1 modem, which first appeared in the iPhone 16e. GSMArena reports this, citing well-known analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.
The Apple C1 modem, although energy-efficient, has limitations, including the lack of mmWave support, which makes it impossible to use it in premium iPhone models.
According to Ming-Chi Kuo, the updated C1 modem is scheduled to be released next year. It will support mmWave, which will provide the highest 5G speeds in regions where the technology is available.
Currently, the C1 modem only supports 5G at sub-6 GHz frequencies. Its design includes a baseband manufactured using 4 nm or 5 nm technology, low-frequency transceivers manufactured using 7 nm, and a power management integrated circuit manufactured using 55 nm. The upgrade includes the addition of mmWave transceivers and external components manufactured using 28 nm technology.
However, according to the analyst, adding new components is not a complicated process. The main task for developers will be the stability of the modem and its energy efficiency.
The iPhone 17 Air is expected to use the C1 modem along with Apple’s own Wi-Fi chip, while the other iPhone 17 models will stick with Qualcomm modems but also get Apple’s Wi-Fi chip. It’s possible that more iPhone 18 models will get Apple’s new modem next year. If not all.
Source: Apple is already working on the next generation of the C1 modem, which will have mmWave support – Ming-Chi Kuo
