When Apple launched its iPhone 16e earlier this year, it included a brand new component: the C1 modem. But more recent devices like the M3 iPad Air and A16 iPad haven’t included it. Here’s where the C1 will appear next, and which products are not expected to get it.
Why the C1 modem was worth the wait
For many years, Apple has been working to develop its own cellular modem tech. Absent that tech being ready, the company has had to rely on Qualcomm to supply 5G modems for its devices.
While Qualcomm’s modems are considered top-tier, the company and Apple haven’t always gotten along very well. In part, it seems, because of how much Qualcomm charges for its components.
Cost savings were one reason for Apple to develop its own 5G modem.
Another key one is that Apple often prefers to control the full technology stack in its products. This enables increased hardware-software integrations that lead to better overall user experiences.
That seems true with Apple’s new C1 modem, which provides two advantages already:
Better battery life thanks to efficiency improvements More responsive data in congested conditions
But despite the benefits of the C1, Apple isn’t giving the new modem to all of its products just yet.
The M3 iPad Air and A16 iPad don’t include it. Nor the M4 MacBook Air, sadly, since cellular Macs aren’t a thing yet.
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