Apple is preparing to use its own mobile data modem (C1 chip), which it has been developing for many years and first used in the iPhone 16e, in the iPhone 17 Air. While there is much interest in how this chip compares to Qualcomm’s existing modems, a new study by Ookla has detailed the performance of the two modems. Here are the details.

Ookla’s speed test results: Apple C1 vs. Qualcomm

This new study, conducted using data from Ookla’s Speedtest.net, shows how both modem chips perform on different networks. The study compares the iPhone 16 with the Qualcomm modem and the iPhone 16e with Apple’s own C1 chip.

The test results are as follows:

Different Performance on Different Networks: The iPhone 16 performed better on networks that utilize carrier aggregation, such as T-Mobile in the US. On T-Mobile, the iPhone 16’s average download speed was 317.64 Mbps, while the iPhone 16e’s was 252.80 Mbps. This is because Qualcomm supports four-carrier aggregation, while Apple’s C1 modem is limited to three.

International Comparison: Internationally, the iPhone 16 performed better in countries with advanced 5G networks, such as China and Saudi Arabia. However, speeds between the two devices were very similar in most countries.

Apple Superiority in Poor Connections: The research also highlights that the C1 chip performs better in poor connection conditions. This suggests Apple is focusing on reliability rather than ultimate speed.

While Qualcomm’s lead in a previous test was found, the company’s funding of this test raised questions about reliability. However, recent independent research from Ookla shows that both chips have strengths and weaknesses in different conditions. Apple appears to have prioritized reliability and stable connectivity in developing its modem.

So, what do you think about this? Share your thoughts in the comments.