Apple’s upcoming iPhone SE 4 is set to make waves as the company’s first device to feature its proprietary 5G modem. However, according to recent reports, this budget-friendly model may come with a significant trade-off: slower upload and download speeds compared to flagship models like the iPhone 16. Slated for a potential February 19 launch, the iPhone SE 4 represents Apple’s bold move toward self-reliance in modem technology, but it also highlights the challenges of competing with established players like Qualcomm.
Apple’s 5G Modem: A Long-Awaited Debut
For years, Apple has relied on third-party manufacturers like Intel and Qualcomm for its modem chips. However, the company has been quietly working on developing its own 5G modem to reduce dependency on external suppliers. Rumors of an in-house modem first surfaced with the iPhone 14 and later the iPhone 15, but technical hurdles delayed its release.
The iPhone SE 4 could finally mark the debut of Apple’s proprietary 5G modem. According to a South Korean publication, the modem will be developed by TSMC, Apple’s long-time chip fabrication partner. While this is a significant milestone for Apple, the modem is expected to lack support for mmWave 5G, a high-frequency band that enables ultra-fast data speeds in supported regions.
The Speed Trade-Off: Sub-6GHz vs. mmWave
The absence of mmWave support means the iPhone SE 4 will rely solely on Sub-6GHz 5G, which offers slower data transfer rates compared to mmWave. While Sub-6GHz provides broader coverage and better penetration through walls, it falls short in delivering the blazing-fast speeds that mmWave is known for.
This limitation could put the iPhone SE 4 at a disadvantage against competitors equipped with Qualcomm’s X75 modem, which supports both Sub-6GHz and mmWave 5G. For users in regions with mmWave infrastructure, the iPhone SE 4 may feel inferior in terms of network performance.
A Phased Transition to In-House Modems
Apple’s move to introduce its 5G modem with the iPhone SE 4 aligns with its broader strategy to gradually phase out third-party components. Renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has previously suggested that Apple plans to transition to its in-house modem technology starting with the iPhone SE 4, followed by the rumored iPhone 17 Air/Slim in late 2025.
The iPhone SE 4 serves as a testing ground for Apple’s modem technology, allowing the company to refine its design and performance before integrating it into higher-end models. However, the modem’s inferior performance compared to Qualcomm’s offerings raises questions about whether the iPhone 17 series will also adopt Apple’s in-house solution or continue to rely on Qualcomm’s proven technology.
What This Means for Consumers
For budget-conscious consumers, the iPhone SE 4 offers an attractive entry point into Apple’s ecosystem with 5G connectivity. However, the lack of mmWave support may be a dealbreaker for users who prioritize speed and performance.
On the other hand, the inclusion of Apple’s proprietary modem could pave the way for future innovations, such as tighter integration between hardware and software, improved power efficiency, and potentially lower costs in the long run.
The Bigger Picture: Apple’s Quest for Independence
The iPhone SE 4 is more than just a budget smartphone—it’s a symbol of Apple’s ambition to control every aspect of its hardware. By developing its own 5G modem, Apple aims to reduce its reliance on Qualcomm, which has dominated the modem market for years.
However, the road to self-reliance is fraught with challenges. Apple’s modem must not only match but surpass the performance of Qualcomm’s offerings to remain competitive. Until then, the iPhone SE 4 represents a cautious first step, offering a glimpse into Apple’s future while acknowledging the limitations of its current technology.
Final Thoughts: A Promising Start, But Room for Improvement
The iPhone SE 4 is poised to be a game-changer for Apple, marking the company’s first foray into 5G modem development. While the lack of mmWave support may limit its appeal to some users, the device represents a significant milestone in Apple’s journey toward technological independence.
As Apple continues to refine its modem technology, future iterations could close the gap with Qualcomm, offering faster speeds and better performance. For now, the iPhone SE 4 is a promising start—a budget-friendly device that hints at Apple’s ambitious plans for the future.
Stay tuned for more updates on the iPhone SE 4 and Apple’s evolving 5G strategy.
