Apple’s ambition to design its wireless connectivity chips is gradually materializing, with recent reports clarifying the company’s approach to integrating custom Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and 5G technology. TF Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo recently shared that the iPhone 17, anticipated in 2025, will feature an Apple-designed Wi-Fi 7 chip but will rely on separate chips for 5G and Bluetooth. This marks a strategic pivot from earlier reports suggesting Apple’s 5G chip would be an all-in-one solution for connectivity.

While Apple’s custom 5G modem is expected to debut with the iPhone SE 4, projected for release in early 2025, this model will continue using a Broadcom Wi-Fi chip. This transition reflects Apple’s gradual move away from third-party suppliers like Qualcomm and Broadcom. According to a tweet from Kuo, both Apple’s 5G and Wi-Fi chips will start appearing in new products simultaneously by late 2025, though the company’s roadmap to fully replace Broadcom’s Wi-Fi components across its devices is expected to take around three years.

Starting from 2H25, both Apple’s 5G and Wi-Fi chips will gradually be used in new products simultaneously

However, since these are two different chips (using different TSMC processes), the early switch-over timelines will differ due to separate production schedules. For example, the iPhone SE4 will move to an Apple 5G modem but still use a Broadcom Wi-Fi chip.

Apple’s approach to chip manufacturing highlights its efforts toward ecosystem control and cost reduction. By developing in-house connectivity solutions, Apple aims to improve ecosystem integration and eliminate reliance on competitors. The chips will likely be produced by TSMC using the N7 process and support Wi-Fi 7, offering faster speeds and lower latency. However, Qualcomm will still supply 5G modems to Apple until at least 2027, indicating that Apple’s full rollout of custom 5G modems might extend beyond the iPhone 17 lineup.

Despite the anticipated transition, Apple faces challenges in perfecting wireless chip technology. Earlier attempts to incorporate in-house connectivity into iPhones were delayed, with issues likely stemming from the technical complexity involved in modem design. As Apple progresses toward launching its own Wi-Fi and 5G chips, it highlights the tech giant’s dedication to lowering reliance on third-party suppliers, reflecting a steady march toward complete control over its hardware ecosystem.

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