Apple is developing its own Wi-Fi 7 chips for future devices, including the much-anticipated iPhone 17 series, which is expected to launch in the latter half of 2025.
New Manufacturing Process
Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo from Tianfeng International disclosed that these chips will be produced using TSMC's N7 process. This is an important advancement in Apple’s plan to improve integration across its products and lessen its dependence on outside suppliers. Kuo suggests that in the next three years, Apple intends to shift its entire range of products to utilize its own Wi-Fi chips. This move is not just about cutting costs; it also aims to enhance the overall synergy of Apple devices. DigiTimes has also mentioned that some of Apple's new iPads set to launch in 2025 may include these self-created Wi-Fi chips, highlighting the company's dedication to designing components in-house, a project that has been ongoing since 2021.
Reducing Supplier Dependence
The drive towards self-made Wi-Fi technology fits into Apple’s larger goal of minimizing reliance on external suppliers. At present, Apple depends on Broadcom for its Wi-Fi chips, and a successful switch could lead to better performance and efficiency in its devices. While it is still uncertain what specific benefits consumers will gain from Apple-designed Wi-Fi chips, this transition implies potential upgrades in connectivity and compatibility throughout Apple’s ecosystem.
Exciting Features in the iPhone 17
Turning our attention back to the iPhone 17 series, it is rumored to include several exciting new features. Reports indicate that the iPhone 17 Pro will adopt a new button layout, replacing the traditional volume buttons and Action button with a single button. Recently, Apple has introduced a Capture Button across the iPhone 16 series to enhance camera accessibility. This change is significant, as Apple's innovations typically debut on the Pro models for a few years before making their way to base and Plus models. This change in approach indicates a major hardware redesign for the iPhone 17 lineup. Furthermore, a new 'Air' or 'Slim' model is also expected, which will offer a slimmer design, catering to users who prefer lightweight devices without compromising on performance.
