Apple is reportedly developing three different versions of its custom 5G modems, which it plans to integrate into iPhone and iPad models over the next three years. If Apple can successfully mass-produce these chips, the company will position itself ahead of competitors.
However, Apple’s ambitions extend beyond the iPhone and iPad, as it is actively “investigating” the idea of introducing cellular connectivity to the Mac lineup for the first time.
Apple Aims to Introduce Cellular Connectivity to Macs as Its Custom 5G Modems Approach Launch
Apple’s goal is to outpace Qualcomm by introducing its custom 5G modem within the next three years. Gurman also reported that the company is considering the introduction of Macs with cellular connectivity, although it is still uncertain if this vision will become reality.
Even if Apple moves forward with this idea, it is unlikely that cellular-enabled Macs will be available until 2026 at the very earliest.
Understanding Apple’s Modem Transition
The transition from Qualcomm’s modems to Apple’s custom-designed modems follows a straightforward strategy, as detailed in recent reports. Apple is reportedly developing three distinct 5G modem variants, each designed for a different purpose.
The Entry-Level 5G Modem (Launching in 2024)
This initial modem will feature low power consumption and will include the ability to connect to satellite service, although it won’t be the fastest modem available. It will have theoretical speeds of up to 4 Gbps.
Designed as an entry-level solution, this modem is expected to find its way into the budget iPhone SE 4 and lower-end iPad models. There’s also speculation that this modem could feature in the iPhone 17 ‘Air’ model.
The Mid-Tier 5G Modem (Expected in 2026)
This version will debut alongside the iPhone 18 Pro models and will offer performance levels comparable to Qualcomm’s current 5G modems.
The High-Performance 5G Modem (Expected by 2027)
Apple is aiming for a performance and efficiency breakthrough with its 2027 modem, which would seek to outmatch Qualcomm’s modem technology on both fronts.
Apple’s Vision for Cellular-Enabled Macs
Apple is considering integrating cellular connectivity into its Mac lineup using the same approach seen in the iPhone and iPad. There’s no inherent technical hurdle to this plan, though Apple likely waited for the development of its own custom modems to replace Qualcomm’s technology.
Experts believe Apple will charge a premium for this feature, though its added utility would make it valuable to professionals and travelers.
In a report from Gurman last year, it was speculated that Apple might introduce cellular-enabled Macs as early as 2028. This suggests that Apple will likely wait until the technology matures and is fully optimized before implementing it.
The next generation of MacBook Pros could potentially support these new custom modems as part of Apple Silicon integration, with built-in modem support expected to streamline performance and connectivity.
Apple’s strategy with custom 5G modems positions it for both improved performance on iPhones and iPads as well as the potential launch of cellular-enabled Macs within the coming years. However, we are still a few years away from seeing this ambition come to full fruition.
