Yesterday(October 22), a teardown of Apple iPhone 12 revealed Qualcomm’s 5G modem inside. Now, a document of Apple reveals that it will continue to use Qualcomm’s 5G modems at least until 2024.
First reported by Macrumors(via GSMArena), page 71 of the document that was pointed out on Twitter, shows the details of the Apple-Qualcomm settlement from 2019. Apple’s statement reportedly begins with the intent to launch some commercial products with Qualcomm X55 5G modems between June 1, 2020, to May 31, 2021. If we recall, a recent teardown of the Apple iPhone 12 revealed that Qualcomm X55 5G modem on it.
By now, Apple has already kickstarted the agreement. Also, since it has mentioned the end date till May of 2021, we might see them on iPad Pros if Apple decides to launch one with 5G connectivity.
Apple’s commitment will continue at least until 2024
As per the agreement, Apple intends to use Qualcomm X60 5G modem in some models between June 1, 2021, to May 31, 2022. If we were to guess, it could be on the next iPhones, and subsequently on other products. Additionally, Apple is also committed to use the upcoming modems of Qualcomm. The agreement mentions unannounced modems like X65 and X70. If we take the X60 5G modem, it is built on an improved 5nm process instead of 7nm on the predecessor, i.e., X55.
Hence, the upcoming modems should have improved battery efficiency, cover more bandwidth, etc. Besides, not only did the statement spill beans about the new modem, but it might have confirmed the naming as well. That said, Apple will use the X65 and X70 modems from June 1, 2022, to May 31, 2024. Although it’s a long way up from now, the statement does strongly hint that Apple’s future products will carry Qualcomm chipsets and transition to 5G.
For the unware, Apple and Qualcomm entered into a legal battle over royalty payment dues last year. However, before the case filing could gain steam, they settled over an agreement and withdrew the plea. As per the settlement, Apple paid a certain amount and signed an agreement with Qualcomm to procure its 5G chips.
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