Rumored iPhone SE 4 Likely Engineering Prototype for Apple's 5G Modem

Apple's rumored iPhone SE 4 may just be an engineering prototype for its upcoming 5G modem, according to a new report from TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.

Back in February, Kuo said that Apple had restarted development of a 6.1-inch iPhone SE 4 based on the iPhone 14; however, it appears this may not be a device intended for mass production.

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Updates on iPhone SE 4 research and prediction:


1. I previously predicted that the iPhone SE 4 would be a derivative model of the iPhone 14. However, my latest research indicates that this derivative model will likely be an engineering prototype for Apple in-house 5G baseband chip technology and mass production validation, and there are no plans for mass production and sales.

2. I believe that the mass production schedule for Apple in-house 5G baseband chip will largely hinge on the test results of this engineering prototype. Consequently, mass production could commence as early as 2025. But if testing falls below expectations, the schedule may be pushed back to 2026 or later.

3. The advanced-node technology to be employed for mass production of Apple in-house 5G baseband chip will depend on the mass production schedule.
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This latest prediction means we may not see an Apple modem until the iPhone 17 or later. Notably, it conflicts with Qualcomm's expectation that Apple will release its own 5G modem in 2024. The company acquired Intel's modem business back in 2019, but development of its in-house 5G modem has taken longer than expected.


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