Cody Stevens
Apple Set to Ditch Qualcomm Modems by 2027—Here’s What It Means for iPhones, Qualcomm, and the Entire Tech Industry
Apple and Qualcomm are heading for a monumental split by 2027—with ripple effects set to transform smartphones, chip markets, and the future of device innovation.
- $5.7–$5.9B: Qualcomm’s annual modem revenue from Apple.
- March 2027: Expected end date for Apple-Qualcomm contract.
- 70% → 20%: iPhones using Qualcomm modems projected to drop below 20% by 2026.
- C2 Modem: Apple already developing next-gen modems for future devices.
Apple’s plans to sever ties with Qualcomm have been in the works for years, but the countdown is officially on. The tech giant’s custom C-series modem, first introduced in the iPhone 16e and lauded for outperforming Qualcomm chips in real-world trials, signals a new era. Starting in 2027, all future iPhones are likely to house Apple’s in-house modem, ending one of the most lucrative partnerships in consumer tech.
Qualcomm’s CEO, in a candid interview, played down the imminent breakup. He told Yahoo Finance that the company is already moving beyond Apple, doubling down on emerging sectors. But make no mistake: with hundreds of millions of iPhones sold annually, this loss is a seismic shift for both companies.
Why Is Apple Dropping Qualcomm Modems?
Apple has long been focused on end-to-end control, from silicon to software. The C1 modem, already a hit in the performance department, allowed Apple to deliver faster data speeds and more efficient battery life. Now, with the upcoming ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air—expected in September 2025—Apple is poised to cement its break from Qualcomm for good.
Not just iPhones: Apple is rumored to be developing MacBooks with in-house modems, reinforcing their push for chip independence.
What’s Next for Qualcomm Post-Apple?
While Qualcomm currently banks up to $5.9 billion yearly from Apple, the chipmaker insists it’s “ready for life after iPhone.” The company is aggressively pivoting to new frontiers:
- Automotive chips powering next-gen smart cars
- IoT devices for the connected home
- AI server chips in a heated race with giants like Nvidia
Qualcomm expects its chips will drop to powering only 20% of iPhones next year—a fraction that will hit zero by 2027. The company aims to replace lost revenue by outpacing rivals in fast-growing sectors.
How Will This Impact iPhone Users?
Expect iPhones to get thinner, faster, and even more efficient:
- Apple says goodbye to third-party modem delays and costs.
- C2 modem development hints at game-changing connectivity ahead.
- Tighter integration means more secure and innovative features for users.
How to Prepare: Will My Next iPhone Be Different?
If you’re planning to upgrade your phone or MacBook:
- Watch for Apple’s C-series modem branding in product announcements.
- Expect breakthrough 5G/6G performance and extended battery life.
- Check reviews for real-world speed and reliability in upcoming devices.
Stay tuned to Apple and Qualcomm for the latest on next-gen device releases.
What It All Means for the Global Tech Race
With Apple seeking complete chip independence and Qualcomm branching far beyond smartphones, the entire mobile tech landscape is in flux. Consumers can look forward to faster innovation cycles, broader device ecosystems, and fierce new rivalries in automotive and AI.
Don’t Miss Out: The 2025 iPhone Revolution Is Near
- Follow Apple for C-series modem device launches and updates.
- Monitor Qualcomm’s shift toward automotive and AI.
- Compare iPhone connectivity speeds as custom chips roll out.
- Keep an eye on industry trends—this split will shape gadget innovation for years to come.
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