Apple’s upcoming iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max are set to feature Qualcomm’s latest cellular modem, providing faster and more power-efficient 5G connectivity for these devices.

In a recent research note from investment firm Haitong International Securities, it was revealed that the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max will be equipped with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X75 modem. However, the standard iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus are expected to continue using the Snapdragon X70 modem, which was employed for the entire iPhone 15 lineup. This represents a shift in Apple’s usual strategy of using the same Qualcomm modem across all models within a generation of iPhones, with the exception of the low-end iPhone SE.

The Snapdragon X75, introduced in February 2023, offers enhanced carrier aggregation and other technological advancements, resulting in faster 5G download and upload speeds compared to the X70. Notably, the X75’s combined mmWave and sub-6GHz 5G transceiver occupies 25% less circuit board space and is up to 20% more power-efficient, according to The Verge.

Furthermore, the Snapdragon X75 supports the latest “5G Advanced” standard, considered the next phase of 5G and a stepping stone toward 6G. 5G Advanced incorporates artificial intelligence and machine learning enhancements to improve 5G performance, as well as an expansion of 5G to additional types of devices and use cases.

Apple is expected to market the iPhone 16 Pro models as featuring “5G Advanced,” similar to the introduction of “LTE Advanced” support for the iPhone 6s in 2015.

While there have been rumors about Apple working on its own 5G modem for iPhones since 2018, the project has reportedly encountered development challenges, and any potential modem announcement is not anticipated until 2025 or later. In the meantime, Apple has extended its 5G modem agreement with Qualcomm through 2026.

Apple is likely to unveil the iPhone 16 lineup in September 2024, providing ample time before the devices hit the market.