Apple is trying hard to create its own 5G modem for the iPhone to replace Qualcomm. So far it's not working out very well [Расследование WSJ] - Aroged

The 5G modem of the iPhone 15 Pro has become 24% faster compared to the iPhone 14 Pro, and promises to please with better power consumption, higher speed and better data transfer over long distances. However, despite Apple’s great efforts, both have Qualcomm modems installed. Apple failed to deliver the modem, despite several years, thousands of recruits, and billions of dollars in investment.

Tim Cook set the task of creating a modem back in 2018, when the legal battle between Apple and Qualcomm over patents was in full swing, WSJ reports. Although the first reason is finance, last year Apple paid Qualcomm about $7.2 billion for the chips used in the iPhone.

Apple believed it could replicate the success of Intel’s transition of computer processors to its own M series. Using its own solution saves the company between $100 and $150 per computer.

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According to the WSJ report, Apple was let down by poor development management, too strict deadlines and the complexity of the task. When creating a 5G modem, it is necessary that it also work well on a variety of 2G, 3G and 4G wireless frequencies. The prototypes developed were too large, slow and overheated.

Still, Apple has not abandoned the idea of creating its own components, especially since the former modem division of Intel has already been purchased. Most likely, Tim Cook and his company are now planning to launch their own modem in 2026, when the supply contract with Qualcomm ends.