The iPhone SE 4, which is set to launch on February 19, promises to deliver a mix of exciting features, though there are some trade-offs, especially when it comes to 5G connectivity. According to recent reports, Apple’s latest budget-friendly phone will sport the company’s proprietary 5G modem. However, there’s a catch: its upload and download speeds may be slower compared to the high-end iPhone 16 models. While this is a big step for Apple in reducing its dependence on external suppliers, it does raise some concerns, particularly around network performance when compared to competitors’ technologies.
Apple’s Push for In-House 5G Modem Technology
For years, Apple has relied on third-party companies, like Intel and Qualcomm, to provide 5G modems for its iPhones. But the company has long been working on developing its own modem to become more self-sufficient. Rumors of an in-house Apple modem have been swirling for some time, and though delays pushed back its expected debut, the iPhone SE 4 might finally bring it to life. This new modem, reportedly being developed by TSMC, could offer smoother integration with Apple’s custom chips, but it may come at a performance cost.
One of the key limitations is that this modem will reportedly lack support for mmWave 5G technology. While the iPhone SE 4 will still support sub-6GHz 5G, which is faster than 4G, mmWave offers significantly higher speeds. This technology is especially useful in busy urban areas and for users who rely on fast data for things like work, gaming, and high-quality video calls. Without mmWave, the iPhone SE 4 may fall behind rivals that use modems like the Qualcomm X75, which is known for its faster speeds and better performance in high-demand situations.
What Slower Speeds Mean for iPhone SE 4 Users
The decision to leave out mmWave support means the iPhone SE 4 will have slower network speeds compared to some other 5G-enabled devices. For casual tasks like browsing the web, watching videos, or scrolling through social media, this probably won’t make much of a difference. However, if you rely on fast upload and download speeds for work or other high-demand uses, the experience may not be as smooth as on the more premium iPhone models, like the iPhone 16, which are expected to feature faster 5G modems with full mmWave support.
Despite this limitation, Apple’s decision to integrate its own 5G modem into the iPhone SE 4 reflects a long-term strategy. Industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has suggested that Apple plans to phase out external modem suppliers, with the iPhone SE 4 marking the first major step in this direction. This move fits with Apple’s larger goal of controlling more of its hardware and software to better integrate its products.
What’s Next for Apple’s 5G Modem?
Looking ahead, the iPhone 17 series, expected later this year, could be the next big milestone for Apple’s in-house modem. However, it’s still unclear whether the iPhone 17 will feature Apple’s own modem or continue using Qualcomm’s technology, especially considering the performance gap. For now, the iPhone SE 4 will serve as a key moment in Apple’s transition toward more self-reliance in modem technology, even if it means slower speeds for budget-conscious consumers.
While the iPhone SE 4 will mark an important step in Apple’s journey to fully in-house chip production, users may want to keep expectations in check when it comes to 5G performance. If you’re looking for the fastest possible network speeds, this may not be the ideal choice. But for those seeking an affordable iPhone with decent performance, the SE 4 still offers a solid deal.
