Apple to tap TSMC to make its own iPhone 5G Modems

By Shivangi Agarwal • Updated On 25 Nov 2021

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Apple is always working towards bringing the entire hardware and software stack of its products under it. And the latest step in this direction is the rumor that it would soon have its own 5G modems for future iPhones and iPads. This would be made allegedly in partnership with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC).

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Latest reports claim that Apple is planning to use TSMC’s 4nm process nod, which has not been used for any commercial project till now. It is being designed and tested at 5nm before being moved to a 4nm process in 2023. Thence it would be scaled further.

This was recently prophesied by Qualcomm (which currently provides modem components for the entire iPhone 13 lineup). The chipmaker claimed that it expects to account for just 20% of the iPhone modem orders in 2 years.

Apple took over Intel’s 5G modem division in 2019, which indicated their intention. Earlier that year, Qualcomm and Apple agreed to end a costly modem technology patent dispute, with the former receiving more than 4 billion dollars (Rs. 29,750 crores) as a part of the settlement.

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TSMC is the manufacturer of all iPhone A-Series processors and M1 systems-on-chip for Mac computers. 2022 iPhone SoCs are expected to use TSMC’s 4nm process while some iPad models are said to be working with 3nm processors in 2023.

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Shivangi Agarwal

Shivangi is a tech writer at Smartprix, where she covers consumer technology news with a focus on smartphones, wearables, laptops, and the evolving world of OTT streaming. Since joining the team in August 2021, she has written over 120 in-depth reviews, comparisons, and buying guides aimed at helping readers navigate the ever-changing tech landscape.

With a strong foundation in English literature and education, Shivangi brings clarity, insight, and a reader-first approach to every story. Her expertise lies in breaking down complex features into accessible, practical insights—whether she’s reviewing the latest smartphone or exploring trends in infotainment.

Shivangi holds a B.A. (Hons.) and M.A. in English, along with a B.Ed in English and Social Studies. She is based in Faridabad, India. You can follow her work on Smartprix or connect with her for tech-related queries.

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