A new report has it that Apple could have TSMC build a custom iPhone 5G modem by 2023.
The report which was obtained by NikkeiAsia revealed that the tech giant is looking to build its own first in-house modem through TSMC’s 4nm process.
It’s also looking to develop its own radio frequency and millimeter wave components that will go alongside the modem.
The source also added that Apple is working on its own power management chip which will be made specifically for the modem.
As of now, all of the 5G-enabled iPhones on the market make use of modems supplied by Qualcomm.
If Apple is able to go through with the contract, it will certainly have an impact on the 5G modem market in the United States which is currently being dominated by Qualcomm.
According to a GizmoChina report, Qualcomm is expected to ship just 20 percent of iPhone modems in 2023, since Apple would launch its in-house 5G modem the same year.
Apple moving away from Qualcomm will further give the company autonomy over hardware specifications which will enhance a better integration with its device hardware.