Apple’s C1 Modem in iPhone 16e Excels in Real-World Scenarios, Outperforming Qualcomm in Key Metrics
The C1 modem delivers superior performance in low-connectivity conditions, better upload speeds, and improved energy efficiency, but lacks mmWave 5G support for peak download speeds.
- Apple's C1 modem in the iPhone 16e outperformed Qualcomm's modem in low-connectivity scenarios, particularly in the bottom 10th percentile of network performance.
- The C1 modem achieved faster upload speeds across major carriers, with significant advantages on AT&T and Verizon networks.
- Energy efficiency tests showed the C1 modem reduced battery consumption, contributing to improved battery life in the iPhone 16e.
- Carrier-specific performance revealed the C1 modem excelled on AT&T and Verizon, while Qualcomm's modem performed better on T-Mobile due to its 5G standalone network compatibility.
- Qualcomm's modem retained an edge in peak download speeds thanks to mmWave 5G support, a feature absent in Apple's first-generation modem.