Apple’s C1 Modem Features Revealed: Tim Cook Claims Company Can Deliver Superior Products Despite Less Premium iPhone Usage

The introduction of the C1 modem in the iPhone 16e marks a pivotal moment for Apple, steering the company closer to its goal of creating high-performance, power-efficient custom 5G solutions. However, strategically launching this baseband chip in a more budget-friendly device has compelled Apple to tread lightly in its marketing strategies. The concern arises from a desire to not cannibalize sales of its premium offerings, which continue to utilize Qualcomm’s established modems. During a recent press interaction, CEO Tim Cook acknowledged Apple’s potential to enhance its product offerings in this domain, indicating that we can expect significant advancements in upcoming releases.

Qualcomm’s Continued Role in iPhone 17 and Future Prospects

Looking ahead, the next generation of iPhones—the iPhone 17 series—will still rely on Qualcomm’s 5G modems. This reliance suggests that Apple is adopting a cautious approach in marketing the C1 modem. Although the C1 does not support mmWave networks, it outperforms Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X71 found in the iPhone 16 models, offering remarkable power efficiency that contributes to the iPhone 16e achieving one of the best battery performances among Apple’s 6.1-inch smartphones. While Apple’s announcement emphasized the C1’s efficiency, it didn’t necessarily equate to enhanced performance.

According to a report by 9to5Mac, during Apple’s Q2 2025 earnings call, CEO Tim Cook expressed enthusiasm regarding the C1’s performance, asserting that Apple can produce superior products that focus on battery life and user satisfaction.

“We’re super excited to ship the first one and get it out there, and it’s gone well. We love that we can produce better products from a point of view of really focusing on battery life and other things that customers want. And so, we have started on a journey, is the way I would put it.”

It is critical to acknowledge that while the forthcoming iPhone 17 lineup will not be equipped with the C1 modem or any other custom-designed solution—apart from a proprietary Wi-Fi chip—Apple is likely to refrain from excessive promotion of the iPhone 16e’s wireless capabilities. Fortunately for the tech giant, it won’t need to keep a low profile for too long as early reports following the C1’s launch indicate that Apple is already developing the C2 modem. This anticipated upgrade is expected to support mmWave networks and will presumably debut in the iPhone 18 series.

Source&Images