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Current-generation Apple Watch models are probably the only devices whose internals comprise of Intel’s modems, but it appears that this alliance will come to an end, with the California-based giant eyeing a future and prosperous partnership with Taiwanese fabless semiconductor manufacturer MediaTek. According to the latest report, the new tag-team will allow Apple to leverage the chipset maker’s 5G modems, bringing advanced wireless connectivity to its future smartwatch watches. MediaTek’s 5G modems designed for future Apple Watch models will not only deliver unrivaled wireless speeds, but mass produced on an improved lithography will result in improved efficiency All Apple Watch models, including the premium Apple Watch Ultra, are outfitted with Intel 4G modems, which is rather surprising to hear because devices like iPhones and iPads all ship with 5G baseband chips for years now. It is not like Apple’s wearable division is a low-priority business, because various watch models bring in billions of revenue for the company. However, a switch to 5G chips could improve the firm’s prospects, which is why Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reports that ditching Intel could become a necessity at this point. After all, all of Intel’s modems are capped at 4G LTE speeds, and as reported by MacRumors, MediaTek’s solutions support 5G Recap, which is a service that is specifically designed for connected devices and wearables that do not require standard 5G speeds. Additionally, looking at how MediaTek is now leveraging TSMC’s latest manufacturing processes to compete with Qualcomm and Apple with its Dimensity 9400 launch, its 5G modems could not only beat Intel’s offerings when comparing raw performance, but in power-efficiency too. The last attribute will allow future Apple Watch models to last longer, resulting in a major selling point for buyers who were discouraged by the runtime of current-generation smartwatches. Given that MediaTek can become a potential supplier, we are scratching our heads, thinking about why Apple does not opt to use the manufacturer to obtain 5G modems for future iPhones? Then again, we often have to remind ourselves that the technology titan has a penchant of having control of every little component. With the iPhone SE 4 supposedly featuring Apple’s first in-house 5G modem, it is only a matter of time before the company shrinks those baseband chips for use in future smartwatches, but that will be a discussion for another time.

Apple Watch to Embrace 5G with MediaTek Modems, Dropping Intel

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Tech News
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The age of Intel modems in current-generation Apple Watch models is seemingly winding down. Apple is setting its sights on a new venture with MediaTek, the Taiwanese semiconductor powerhouse, for a promising future in 5G technology. This fresh collaboration is expected to bring cutting-edge wireless connectivity to Apple’s upcoming smartwatches, marking a new era of speed and efficiency.

Unlike the iPhone and iPad, which have long embraced 5G technology, the Apple Watch lineup still employs Intel’s 4G modems. It’s a surprising choice given the watch’s significant contribution to Apple’s revenue. However, the shift to MediaTek’s 5G modems could have the potential to revolutionize Apple Watches. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman suggests that moving away from Intel is not just a strategic choice but a necessity for the company.

MediaTek’s 5G offerings are expected to outperform Intel’s modems, thanks to advanced lithography and TSMC’s latest manufacturing processes. This technological leap will provide not just faster internet speeds but also enhance power efficiency—a critical factor for wearable devices. As a result, future Apple Watches could enjoy longer battery life, addressing a common issue with current smartwatches and becoming a compelling attraction for potential buyers.

This collaboration opens intriguing questions about Apple’s strategy. One might wonder why Apple isn’t extending this partnership to its iPhones. However, with rumors of the iPhone SE 4 incorporating Apple’s first proprietary 5G modem, it seems that Apple is keen on maintaining control over its technology, paving the way for further developments in their in-house chipset capabilities.

The prospect of MediaTek becoming a key supplier for Apple is exciting and highlights Apple’s ongoing ambition to innovate and optimize its products’ performance. While MediaTek’s 5G integration in future Apple Watches appears imminent, how this will shape the company’s broader tech landscape remains an engaging topic for future discussions.

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