Apple is reportedly set to produce its own 5G modem chips for its iPhones by 2024, according to comments made by the CEO of Qualcomm, Cristiano Amon, at the Mobile World Congress 2023 in Barcelona. Earlier in February 2022, first speculations surfaced that Apple will use its own self-developed 5G modem chips for the upcoming iPhone 15 lineup. While Apple currently uses Qualcomm modems in its iPhone 14 models, the company has been exploring the possibility of in-house parts for some time. Apple acquired Intel’s modem business in 2019, leading to the news that it would begin using its own modems this year.

Amon stated that Qualcomm is making no plans to provide Apple with a modem in 2024, but emphasized that it is ultimately up to Apple to make the decision. He also clarified that royalty was “independent from providing a chip” and did not confirm whether Apple would pay Qualcomm QTL licenses if it moves to its own modems.

Qualcomm has been diversifying its business into automotive semiconductors and low-power applications. Amon also addressed the legal battle between Qualcomm and British semiconductor firm Arm IP, stating that the company had broad rights to the Arm IP, and that a solution was in the works.

Regarding the Wall Street Journal’s report that the US government is considering revoking export licenses for US suppliers to Huawei, Amon stated that Qualcomm had licenses to sell 4G chips to Huawei and was being compliant. While revocation of its license would impact Qualcomm financially, the company is diversified and provides modems to other companies, including Samsung and Honor, and is growing in the automotive sector amongst other avenues.

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