Last month, Apple introduced its inaugural in-house modem: the C1. This modem not only surpasses Qualcomm’s 5G alternative, but it also boasts key features. According to rumors, Apple’s C-class modems may usher in additional product enhancements in the future—two of which are particularly significant.
Cellular Macs may soon become a reality
I have always thought that Apple’s internal cellular modems could pave the way for cellular functionality in the Mac.
And it seems Apple may be on the same page.
Mark Gurman from Bloomberg reported just before the launch of C1 that Apple is “exploring” the possibility of adding cellular to the Mac, potentially as early as 2026.
He stated:
With its own modem coming, Apple is examining the possibility of adding cellular connectivity to Macs for the first time. This means users would no longer need Wi-Fi to access the internet. Until now, this ability has been exclusive to the iPhone, Apple Watch, and iPad. However, cellular capabilities for Macs are unlikely before 2026, when Apple is set to introduce a second-generation modem with enhanced speed support.
This aligns with logic. The iPad has long offered cellular versions and has progressively become a more formidable alternative to laptops.
With the advancements of the iPad Pro, larger screens, and the significantly enhanced Magic Keyboard, iPads and Macs are closer in functionality than ever before.
Yet, while the iPad enjoys the benefits of 5G, Macs continue to rely solely on Wi-Fi or tethering for internet access.
Though it has taken considerable time, it appears cellular-enabled Macs might soon be on the horizon—potentially coinciding with next year’s anticipated MacBook Pro redesign.
5G modems in every iPad and MacBook
Though this innovation might still be years away, Mark Gurman has shared another significant advancement enabled by Apple’s C-class modems.
Shortly after the C1’s launch, Gurman outlined Apple’s plans regarding its C-class modem lineup.
In addition to discussing the C2 and C3 models in the forthcoming years, he concluded with this fascinating observation:
Apple aims to eventually integrate the modem chip into the primary processor. This will enhance energy efficiency and lower costs. The earliest expectation for this could be 2028.
This prompts an intriguing question: if cellular modems are integrated into the main processor, will it eliminate the additional fees typically charged for separate cellular models?
Currently, Apple offers iPads in two variations: a model with cellular capabilities and a less expensive option without it.
The same applies to the Apple Watch.
Apart from the financial implications, this strategy poses another challenge.
If one opts for a cellular iPad, that choice must be made at the time of purchase. Conversely, choosing a cost-effective Wi-Fi-only model may lead to regret later if cellular functionality is desired.
However, by incorporating its modems into the main M-class or A-class processors, Apple could potentially enable 5G cellular in all iPads, and by that time, hopefully in MacBooks as well.
Since Apple produces its own modems, it can save considerable expenses compared to what Qualcomm charges, making the additional fees less necessary.
Furthermore, it could ultimately cost Apple more to develop completely separate processors without cellular functionality than to streamline production by using a unified chip that includes cellular capabilities.
In summary: Apple’s C-class modems
Even with its debut of the C1 modem, Apple has demonstrated that its in-house cellular initiatives yield substantial benefits. Not only does the company evade hefty royalties to Qualcomm, but there are tangible enhancements in user experience as well. With the upcoming C2 and C3 modems and beyond, those improvements are poised to expand significantly.
Would you consider purchasing a cellular Mac? Do you think Apple will ultimately enable cellular capabilities in all iPads and MacBooks? Share your thoughts in the comments.
