Apple has been on a long and challenging journey to develop its own internal 5G modem, but it seems that the battle is not heading in the right direction. According to a new post on the South Korean platform, Naversupply chain sources close to Apple state that Cupertino is restructuring investments in its modem development division as the company prepares to scrap the project altogether. Similar reports from Japanese supply chain sources were confirmed by tipster @Tech_Revewho has a reliable track record when it comes to Apple leaks.
Back in September, Apple extended its 5G modem agreement with Qualcomm until 2026. All of Apple’s devices have used Qualcomm-made modems so far. Cupertino was expected to transition to its own developed 5G modem by 2026, but this development now seems unlikely. Apple has also encountered legal trouble over modem patents held by Qualcomm that will expire in 2030.