Apple has taken an important step towards reducing its dependence on third-party manufacturers by using its self-developed C1 5G modem in the iPhone 16e model. Apple C1, which is curious how it will perform against Qualcomm’s modems, was compared with Snapdragon X71 in the tests performed.

iPhone 16e’s 5G modem tested

The modem’s lack of mmWave support raised significant performance questions. However, the results revealed that Apple has developed a better modem than expected. In Speedtest benchmark tests conducted by Ookla, the performance of the C1 modem and Snapdragon X71 was compared. iPhone 16e performed similarly to iPhone 16 using Snapdragon X71 in download speeds.

In the tests, the average download speed of iPhone 16e in the highest 90 per cent of users was 560 Mbps, while the iPhone 16 model with Qualcomm chip reached 756 Mbps. In the low coverage area, Apple’s modem provided an advantage. In the lowest 10 per cent of users, the average data speed of iPhone 16e was measured as 218 Mbps. The model using the Snapdragon X71 remained at 210 Mbps.

In loading speeds, Apple C1 outperformed the Qualcomm modem in many tests. These results show that Apple has made significant progress in modem technology and offers a strong alternative to Qualcomm’s solutions.

Thus, Apple’s focus on developing a special chip with an integrated modem in the future has also strengthened. It will be clear in the coming period whether the company will be able to completely eliminate its dependence on Qualcomm. So what do you think about this issue? You can share your opinions with us in the comments section below.