Apple reportedly developing its own WiFi 7 chips for iPhone 17 and above-Apple is reportedly working on its own WiFi 7 chips for future iPhones, with the iPhone 17 series anticipated as the first to feature this upgrade. This step is part of Apple’s broader strategy to design proprietary components, further reducing reliance on third-party suppliers like Broadcom and Qualcomm. Here’s what this means and what we can expect from Apple’s potential shift toward WiFi 7.
Why WiFi 7?
WiFi 7, also known as IEEE 802.11be, is the next-generation WiFi standard that promises to bring substantial improvements in speed, connectivity, and efficiency. Compared to WiFi 6E, WiFi 7 can offer speeds up to 2.4 times faster, with theoretical maximum speeds of around 40 Gbps. This enhancement will be particularly valuable as applications like AR, VR, and cloud gaming demand faster, more reliable connections.
Apple’s Move Toward In-House WiFi Chips
Apple has long worked on minimizing dependence on external suppliers. Following the development of its own A-series chips for iPhones and M-series chips for Macs, WiFi chip development seems like the next logical step. This in-house approach could give Apple greater control over integration, optimization, and energy efficiency, allowing for more cohesive performance across its devices.
Expected Benefits of WiFi 7 in iPhones
- Enhanced Speeds: WiFi 7 will deliver faster speeds, which could result in a more responsive experience for streaming, gaming, and large data transfers.
- Lower Latency: Reduced lag will be critical for AR/VR applications and real-time cloud-based services, paving the way for more immersive applications.
- Improved Network Efficiency: WiFi 7’s multi-link operation (MLO) allows a device to use multiple bands simultaneously, providing a smoother, uninterrupted experience even on congested networks.
- Longer Battery Life: Apple could optimize WiFi 7 to work more efficiently, extending battery life through better power management.
Timeline for WiFi 7 Adoption
The iPhone 17, expected in 2025, could mark Apple’s first device with WiFi 7 capabilities, followed by a broader rollout in other Apple products, like iPads and Macs. By developing its own WiFi chips, Apple might also bring WiFi 7 to its devices sooner than many competitors, allowing it to maintain a technological edge.
