The upcoming iPhone lineup is expected to feature significant changes, with predictions suggesting exciting developments in the months ahead.
Among these, a redesigned iPhone SE with Face ID and a slimmer model nicknamed the “iPhone 17 Air” are anticipated. A new report sheds light on the design innovations, which are said to hinge on the introduction of an in-house modem system.
According to Mark Gurman, “Apple’s in-house modem system will debut next spring,” marking its initial rollout with the iPhone SE, expected around that time. However, it will make its way to the iPhone 17 Air at a later stage. The modem’s integration is a critical aspect of the phone’s design, playing a key role in enabling the slimmer form factor.
The new in-house modem, code-named “Sinope,” represents a technological breakthrough, though it reportedly faced challenges during development. Early prototypes were criticized for being too large, inefficient, and prone to overheating.
Gurman notes that Apple addressed these issues through revamped development practices, hiring engineers from Qualcomm, and reorganizing its management structure. These measures have bolstered the company’s confidence in the modem’s viability.
The iPhone 17 Air is expected to be approximately 2 millimeters thinner than the current iPhone 16 Pro, which measures 8.25mm thick.
This reduction suggests the Air could measure just 6.25mm in thickness, making it the slimmest iPhone to date.
Additionally, the model will include a 6.6-inch display and a single rear camera, reinforcing its emphasis on a design-focused aesthetic.
Gurman elaborates on the modem’s advantages, explaining that it will be “more tightly integrated with other in-house components,” requiring less space and battery power.
This integration allows Apple to craft a thinner smartphone while accommodating the necessary battery, display, and camera system. Over time, the modem’s efficiency could enable Apple to explore other design innovations, including foldable devices, a concept the company continues to research.
Despite its design focus, the new modem may not match the performance of current Qualcomm counterparts. Gurman reports that in lab tests, the Apple modem achieves download speeds of up to 4 gigabits per second—lower than the peak speeds of non-mmWave Qualcomm modems.
However, real-world usage often sees significantly lower speeds for both types, meaning users are unlikely to notice a difference in everyday performance.
The new modem is set to debut in Apple’s mid-tier offerings, including a model code-named “D23” slated for late next year, which will feature a significantly thinner design. Additionally, it will appear in lower-end iPads beginning in 2025.
While the iPhone 17 Air will prioritize design, it does not appear to sacrifice functionality. If the reports prove accurate, this model will represent a fusion of aesthetic appeal and technological innovation, with the new modem system at the heart of its advancements.
