Apple has introduced the iPhone 16e, bringing several firsts to its more affordable lineup, including an OLED display, Face ID, and support for Apple Intelligence.
While these upgrades have drawn attention, the device also marks a significant shift in Apple’s modem strategy with the introduction of the C1 modem, the company’s first proprietary 5G cellular modem.
This move reflects Apple’s long-term efforts to develop in-house modem technology and reduce its dependence on Qualcomm.
Apple’s First In-House 5G Modem
The C1 modem is the result of nearly six years of Apple’s investment in modem technology. After acquiring Intel’s modem business in 2019, Apple set out to create its own solution but faced multiple delays, leading to an extended partnership with Qualcomm.
With Qualcomm continuing to supply 5G modems for Apple’s main lineup through at least 2026, the iPhone 16e serves as the first real-world implementation of Apple’s in-house modem.
Apple claims the C1 modem delivers efficient 5G connectivity while optimizing battery life. The iPhone 16e boasts up to 26 hours of video playback, surpassing the base iPhone 16’s 22-hour estimate.
This improvement is attributed to a combination of a larger battery, better power management, and the efficiency of the new modem.
If successful, Apple’s modem technology could eventually be integrated into higher-end models, allowing the company to fully control its cellular hardware.
How the C1 Modem Affects
While Apple highlights the efficiency gains of the C1 modem, it does not support mmWave 5G, a high-frequency band used in certain regions for ultra-fast network speeds.
This omission could result in lower peak download and upload speeds compared to Qualcomm-powered iPhones in areas where mmWave is available. However, the modem supports sub-6GHz 5G, which remains the most widely used spectrum globally.
Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman notes that while the absence of mmWave may not significantly affect everyday users, it raises questions about Apple’s long-term network compatibility strategy.
Future iterations of Apple’s modem may need to incorporate mmWave support to match the full range of connectivity offered by existing iPhone models.
iPhone 16e
Starting at Rs. 59,900 ($599), the iPhone 16e is the most affordable iPhone to feature Apple Intelligence, the company’s AI-powered system.
Equipped with a 6.1-inch OLED display, the A18 chip, and Face ID, it brings several high-end features to a lower price point.
The inclusion of the C1 modem in this model suggests a cautious rollout strategy, allowing Apple to refine the technology before potentially expanding its use across the iPhone lineup.
Apple’s decision to debut the C1 modem in the iPhone 16e rather than its flagship models indicates a measured approach to integrating in-house modem technology.
If the modem performs well in real-world usage, it could set the stage for Apple to further reduce reliance on third-party suppliers, enhance battery efficiency, and gain greater control over its modem supply chain in future devices.
