Apple Inc. (NASDAQ: AAPL) has unveiled its latest iPhone lineup, which includes the debut of a new in-house cellular modem for the iPhone 18 Pro model. The company is continuing a strategy to reduce its reliance on external suppliers, specifically Qualcomm Inc. (NASDAQ: QCOM).
According to the technical specifications, the iPhone 18 Pro features the C2 cellular modem. In contrast, the U.S. specifications for the iPhone 18 Pro Max do not list the C2, leaving it unclear which Qualcomm modem is currently inside that specific model. The source text notes that this discrepancy could be due to supply constraints, as the C2 is also used across the iPhone 18 Pro and the new iPhone Duo.
The C2 modem is designed to support sub-6GHz and mmWave 5G in the United States. Apple states that the chip delivers AI-powered improvements to cellular quality and reliability, along with faster upload speeds compared to the previous C1X model. Additionally, the C2 is reported to offer 15% lower energy consumption.
The development marks a significant step in Apple's vertical integration strategy. Qualcomm has supplied cellular modems to Apple for years, a relationship that began to change in 2025 with the introduction of the first custom modem in the iPhone 16e. Apple previously attempted to replace Qualcomm by acquiring Intel Corp.’s (NASDAQ: INTC) smartphone modem business but ultimately continued using Qualcomm after a 2019 settlement.
Beyond the modem, both the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max models feature the N1 chip, which enables Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread. Despite the C2 appearing in the Pro model, the Pro Max retains a significant advantage in battery life. The iPhone 18 Pro is rated for up to 36 hours of video playback, while the Pro Max is rated for up to 45 hours.
Regarding pricing, the iPhone 18 Pro starts at $1,199, while the Pro Max starts at $1,299. Both devices will go for preorder on Sept. 12 and become available on Sept. 18.
