Apple Vision Pro's Future: Custom Modem Chips and 5G Connectivity

Apple's Vision Pro headset is on the brink of a connectivity revolution, with plans to integrate custom-designed Apple modem chips that could eventually support 5G, as reported by Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. This strategic move indicates Apple's ambitious blueprint to enhance the wireless capabilities of its devices, starting with the Vision Pro.

Currently, Apple is developing its own modem technology, with the first iteration set to appear in the 2025 iPhone SE, low-cost iPad, and iPhone 17 "Air" models. This initial modem will support sub-6GHz 5G connectivity. Future iterations, however, will aim higher, with a second-generation chip supporting faster mmWave 5G speeds, and a third-generation chip by 2027 expected to match or surpass current Qualcomm technologies.

While the Vision Pro's first model might not feature this new chip, Apple's roadmap suggests that subsequent versions of the headset could well be equipped with these advanced modems. This development could significantly expand the headset’s functionality, allowing for seamless on-the-go connectivity and a richer array of applications, from high-speed gaming to more complex augmented reality interactions.

Beyond the Vision Pro, Apple is also considering this modem technology for future Macs and potentially augmented reality glasses, though the latter is still some years away. The goal is clear: Apple intends to phase out Qualcomm 5G modems in favor of its own, which will be integrated with other Apple-designed components for greater efficiency and performance.

With a potential second-generation Vision Pro equipped with an M5 chip slated for as early as 2025, and rumors of a more affordable model on the horizon, Apple is poised to redefine mobile computing and connectivity. The integration of in-house modem technology marks a significant step toward a more interconnected and versatile future for Apple's wearable technology.

Source: MacRumors