Rumors that Intel will supply Apple with 5G modem chips for its next-generation phones have been circulating online for some time now. The latest reports suggest that Intel will be distributing its 5G modem chips earlier than previously planned for testing in upcoming iPhones.
According to the chipmaker's press release, the manufacturing of the XMM 8160 (the first 5G modem) has been moved six months ahead of schedule. This will allow Apple and other smartphone makers to test the chip before the launch of 5G-enabled devices in 2020.
The XMM 8160 5G promises top speeds of up to 6Gbps, which is about three to six times faster than current LTE modems. It will still support LTE as well as previous technologies, so device makers don't have to worry about two chips taking up extra space and battery life.
5G chips will be available by the second half of 2019 and will offer better experiences as 5G connectivity is adopted globally.
Qualcomm, on the other hand, is already working on its own 5G modem chip. Nearly 18 companies, including Samsung, Sony, Nokia, Xiaomi, HTC, Vivo, Oppo, OnePlus, etc., are working with Qualcomm on its latest chip. Meanwhile, Huawei and Samsung are also working on home 5G modems.
Although we will have to wait until 2020 to see an iPhone with 5G support, the year 2019 is set to see many phone launches with 5G technology.
