Apple willing to do what it takes to ditch Qualcomm’s cellular modems
Apple is seeking independence from Qualcomm at all costs by working on its own cellular modem.
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Apple is seeking independence from Qualcomm at all costs by working on its own cellular modem.
The company has been working on its own cellular modem, a major element in the manufacturing of iPhones, Apple Watches, and other devices.
For more than ten years, Apple has been using modem chips created by Qualcomm Inc.
In 2018, Apple started working on an in-house cellular modem after a legal battle with Qualcomm that started a year prior.
The matter was then settled by an agreement, which indicated that Apple could use Qualcomm’s chips for its production. Qualcomm received a payment from Apple, and both agreed on a six-year license agreement that should end in 2025.
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Despite Apple’s efforts to create an improved modem design, it can be difficult as Qualcomm’s chip is already an industry-leading element, notes Bloomberg.
But Apple doesn’t shy away from these difficulties and is ready to spend billions of dollars on the matter. It’s already been reported that despite a number of setbacks, the company is hoping to launch its model next year at the earliest.
Nevertheless, having in mind the situation, Apple has extended its agreement with Qualcomm until March, 2027.
What is the reason for Apple's desire to make its own modem? The company believes that it has been paying too high a price for the modems produced by Qualcomm. However, the wish to save money can be compromised by the fact that Apple will still have to pay some royalties for a possible Qualcomm patent infringement. The chipmaker has hinted that no new idea can be developed when it comes to cellular models.