GoKawiilTeardown shows US iPhone 18 Pro Max still relies on Qualcomm's X80 modem
A TechInsights teardown of the iPhone 18 Pro Max confirms that the US model uses Qualcomm's Snapdragon X80 modem instead of Apple's own C2 chip, which powers the device everywhere else and in the smaller iPhone 18 Pro globally. The X80 is the same modem found in last year's iPhone 17 Pro line, meaning Apple hasn't fully extended its in-house modem rollout to this specific US model.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
This shows Apple's shift away from Qualcomm modems is uneven and model-specific rather than a clean sweep, likely tied to supply, certification, or performance tradeoffs for the Pro Max's mmWave and connectivity needs in the US market. It also signals Apple's C-series modems are closing the gap with Qualcomm on features like mmWave support, even as Qualcomm retains a foothold in Apple's flagship lineup.
- US iPhone 18 Pro Max uses Qualcomm's Snapdragon X80 modem, not Apple's C2.
- Every other iPhone 18 Pro Max region and the standard iPhone 18 Pro use Apple's in-house C2 modem.
- Apple's C2 modem now supports mmWave 5G, closing a key gap with Qualcomm's technology.
iPhone 18 Pro Max — If you're intrigued by the modem story, the iPhone 18 Pro Max itself is the device at the center of it, letting you experience Apple's latest hardware firsthand. It's a great pick for anyone wanting cutting-edge cellular performance alongside Apple's newest chip and camera upgrades.
See iPhone 18 Pro Max on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: 9to5mac.com — Chance Miller, 2026-09-19
Published there as: “iPhone 18 Pro Max still uses a Qualcomm modem in the US, teardown confirms”
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