Apple's new C1X 5G modem is believed to have been designed into the iPhone Air not only as a means to provide bleeding-edge performance but also as a means toward power-efficient operation. Although Apple claims to have built a super-fast C1X modem faster than Qualcomm's Snapdragon X75 by up to 30% less energy. An analysis by what a technology research firm CEO suggested that whereas Qualcomm's modems might lead in raw performance, C1X from Apple is the best choice for maximizing battery endurance.
Expert Opinion Qualcomm for Speed Apple for Battery Life
When asked: Ideal for people whose primary concern is maximum throughput and performance, Bajarin said, his research firm Creative Strategies will find Qualcomm's modems superior. This was shown in a teardown that indicated all models of iPhone 17 use Qualcomm's Snapdragon X80, except for iPhone Air, which tends to be because of speed and mmWave network.
However, Bajarin asserted the advantage that Apple's C1X held with regard to power efficiency. He said,
"It may not be as good as Qualcomm's yet, in terms of just overall throughput and performance, but they can control it and they can make it run at lower power. So you're going to get better battery life."
This particular advantage was on account of the fact that everything was tightly integrated in Apple hardware and software, which made for better control of the component. It is also important to note that a carrier's network infrastructure limits the practical speed of any modem.
C1X Modem Characteristics and Concessions
- Network Compatibility: MmWave 5G connectivity is missing from the C1X modem and works on sub-6GHz networks only.
- Power Efficiency: This makes up its main characteristic of high power efficiency, which is a part of the product proposition of the iPhone Air, to market 27 hours of video-playback endurance.
- Supporting Hardware: The C1X partners with Apple's N1 wireless networking chip, which is also an important chip to be considered for runtime purposes.
Apple's Strategy for Modem in Future
The phasing of using Qualcomm modem from most of its devices will take a few years. This is what Bajarin has to say about the likely disappearance of a few devices from Apple's portfolio. Apple's licensing agreements with Qualcomm on modem usage are set to expire by March 2027.
Development work is still going on for Apple's next modem generation, allegedly called as the C2. This new future chip is expected to support mmWave networks, an important differentiator from Qualcomm's modem offerings. According to reports, Apple's ultimate objective is to develop a single chip combining its 5G modem, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth functionalities-possible internal savings on space and enhanced power conservation further.
