Report: Apple iPhone 16 Pro Models to Provide Enhanced, Quicker 5G Network Access

The latest iPhone 15 series smartphones were released last month, and the Cupertino-based tech giant is now working on the next-generation iPhone 16 series. According to a new report, the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max models will be equipped with Qualcomm’s latest cellular modem, which offers faster and better 5G connectivity.

According to technology analyst Jeff Pu, the Pro model in 2024 will be equipped with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X75 modem. However, the regular iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus retain the Snapdragon X70 modem used by the entire iPhone 15 lineup.

“Apple has typically used the same Qualcomm modem across all models in each iPhone generation, with the exception of the cheaper iPhone SE, so this would be a change in the company’s strategy,” MacRumors said.

According to the Verge, Qualcomm’s latest cellular modem, the Snapdragon X75, was announced in February 2023. It features improved carrier aggregation and other technological advancements that enable faster 5G upload and download speeds compared to the X70.

The modem’s combined mmWave and sub-6 GHz 5G transceiver takes up 25 percent less PCB space and uses up to 20 percent less power, it said.

The Snapdragon X75 also supports the latest “5G Advanced” standard, which is described as the next stage of 5G and an evolution towards 6G. 5G Advanced includes AI and machine learning enhancements to improve 5G performance, and also extends 5G to other devices and use cases.

According to reports, the iPhone maker is likely to market iPhone 16 Pro models with 5G Advanced, just like the iPhone 6s got support for LTE Advanced in 2015.

The Cupertino-based has been rumored to have been working on its own 5G modem for iPhones since 2018, but the project has reportedly faced development challenges, and the modem is not expected to be announced until 202. In the meantime, the Cupertino-based expanded. its 5G modem contract with Qualcomm until 2026.