Apple’s iPhone 16e and the C1 Modem
Apple has launched the iPhone 16e, priced at $599, featuring an A18 chip and the new Apple C1 modem. This modem is Apple’s first-ever in-house 5G modem, developed after years of research and a major acquisition. The introduction of the C1 modem shows that companies like Google and Samsung, if they develop their own chips and modems, can replace Qualcomm and offer better performance and efficiency.
The iPhone 16e – A Mid-Range Game Changer
The iPhone 16e, which is seen as the successor to the iPhone SE, has a 6.1-inch display and is designed to challenge mid-range competitors like the Google Pixel 8a and OnePlus 13R. What sets the iPhone 16e apart, however, is the C1 modem.
The Importance of the Apple C1 Modem
5G modems are essential components of mobile devices, and only a few companies, such as Qualcomm, MediaTek, Samsung, and Huawei, have been successful in developing them. The iPhone 16e represents a significant shift for Apple as it’s the first device to feature the C1 modem, developed entirely in-house.
Apple’s Shift to In-House Modems
Much like how Apple replaced Intel processors in Macs with its own silicon, the company is now moving to replace Qualcomm’s modems with its own C-series modems in future iPhones. Apple’s $1 billion acquisition of Intel’s modem business in 2019 was the first step towards creating these modems. Though Apple struggled for years, the iPhone 16e marks a breakthrough in their journey.
Apple C1 Modem’s Capabilities and Limitations
The Apple C1 modem is built using a 4-nanometer baseband and a 7nm transceiver. While it offers impressive efficiency and longer battery life, it doesn’t support millimeter-wave 5G. Qualcomm, however, continues to lead with its 5G-Advanced modem-RF system, which optimizes connectivity through AI.
Why Apple Chose In-House Modems
Apple’s decision to create its own modems likely reduces costs. It still pays Qualcomm significant licensing fees, and estimates suggest that Apple could pay over $2.5 billion to Qualcomm for the iPhone 16 lineup. Developing in-house modems allows Apple to integrate its chips, modems, and software tightly, resulting in better efficiency. Also: The iPhone 16e has arrived: Here’s everything you need to know about Apple’s most budget-friendly iPhone of 2025, explained in 10 key points.
Implications for the Android Market
Apple’s success with in-house modems may inspire other Android manufacturers to follow suit. Samsung, for instance, could rely on its Exynos chips and modems, reducing its dependence on Qualcomm. If Samsung perfects its Exynos chips and modems, it could leave Qualcomm behind, gaining greater control over its devices.
Challenges for Android Manufacturers
Android phones face a bigger challenge when it comes to developing their own modems. Modems are typically integrated with the SoC (system on chip), and while Samsung has the Exynos Modem 5400, it is still working on improving its Exynos processors to compete with Qualcomm. Once Samsung achieves this, it will have more control over its chips, modems, and software, making it a major player in the Android market.
Apple’s Strategy and Future of In-House Modems
Apple’s strategy is clear—by starting with affordable phones like the iPhone 16e, the company is testing its new modem before rolling it out to flagship models. Samsung seems to be adopting a similar strategy by using Exynos processors in many of its devices while improving chip quality. Once Samsung perfects its Exynos processors, it will be able to ditch Qualcomm entirely.
Apple has proven that creating in-house modems is possible. Now, it’s up to companies like Samsung to follow suit. While Apple has made significant progress, Samsung still has work to do before its Exynos chips can compete with Qualcomm’s best.
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