Apple Extends 5G Modem License with Qualcomm Until 2027

Continued challenges in in-house 5G modem development lead to extension of Qualcomm agreement.

Apple has extended its 5G modem license with Qualcomm until March 2027, according to Qualcomm's Q1 2024 earnings call.
Apple's in-house 5G modem project has faced numerous challenges, including slow performance and overheating, leading to multiple delays.
Apple originally planned to introduce its own 5G modem in the iPhone SE in spring 2025, but this has been postponed until at least late 2025 or early 2026.
Apple acquired Intel's 5G modem business for $1 billion in 2019 to boost its 5G development efforts, but has struggled with issues in Intel's code.
Despite setbacks, Apple has not abandoned its 5G modem ambitions and is also focusing on 6G chips.