Intel is believed to be supplying 5G modem chips for Apple’s iPhone starting in 2020. However, Intel is looking to produce its 5G chips sooner than previously planned, which could be important to testing them in upcoming iPhones.
A new press release today from Intel (via The Verge) details that the company’s first 5G modem, the XMM 8160, will be produced sooner than originally expected. Moving up manufacturing by more than six months should allow Apple and other smartphone makers to test the chip before making devices available with the 5G support in 2020.
However, as noted by The Verge, almost all other OEMs are on board to use Qualcomm’s 5G chip.
Intel notes that the first “commercially available” smartphones featuring its new XMM 8160 5G modem will come in the first half of 2020, but Apple is thought to be waiting for the next version, the 8161. That could line up with a 2H2020 release.
Apple is also allegedly in talks with MediaTek about supplying modems for iPhone.
- Report: Intel to supply 5G modems for the iPhone in 2020
- AT&T says it will launch 5G mobile service in the US in the coming weeks
- Qualcomm reveals breakthrough 5G millimeter wave antenna designated for smartphones
