In a surprising turn of events, Apple has reportedly abandoned its ambitious pursuit of an in-house 5G modem. The tech giant has encountered significant challenges on its arduous journey toward developing proprietary 5G technology, and sources within the company’s supply chain suggest that Cupertino is now in the process of dismantling its modem development department.
Insights from South Korean platform Naver reveal that Apple is undergoing a strategic shift, restructuring its investments and, in a drastic move, contemplating the abandonment of the entire 5G modem project. These claims gain credibility from parallel reports emanating from Japanese supply chain sources, further substantiated by the reputable Apple tipster @Tech_Reve, known for accurate leaks in the past.
This abrupt change in direction follows Apple’s decision in September to extend its 5G modem partnership with Qualcomm until 2026. While Apple initially aimed to transition to an in-house 5G modem by that time, current developments cast doubt on the feasibility of this timeline. Legal entanglements with Qualcomm over modem patents, set to expire in 2030, have also contributed to the complexity of Apple’s modem endeavors.
The decision to abandon in-house 5G modem development marks a significant deviation from Apple’s longstanding commitment to vertical integration. As the tech industry closely watches these developments, questions arise about the implications for Apple’s future 5G capabilities and the company’s strategic partnerships in the rapidly evolving telecommunications landscape.
