iPhone 17e, coming soon, said to feature Apple’s C1X modem

Apple’s iPhone 16e
According to reporting by The Information, Apple is making significant strides in its iPhone development pipeline, with a focus on in-house cellular modem technology and exploring bold new form factors like foldable screens and curved glass cases.
In the near term, Apple plans to introduce its custom-designed cellular modems starting with lower-end models. The Information reports that a new entry-level iPhone model, referred to as the “iPhone 17e” and expected to launch in spring 2026, will feature the C1X modem. This chip represents a natural progression over the earlier C1 modem used in the iPhone 16e. However, the iPhone 17e is anticipated to omit Apple’s N1 wireless chip, potentially resulting in the absence of Thread networking support despite incorporating an Apple-designed cellular baseband.
For premium devices, the roadmap points to further modem evolution. Internal indications suggest that the iPhone 18 Pro models, slated for a fall launch, will include the N1 chip. Apple is reportedly weighing options between the C1X and a next-generation C2 baseband for these Pro variants.
Beyond connectivity improvements, Apple’s longer-term vision includes transformative design changes. The Information details ongoing work on foldable screens, which could enable new device categories or hybrid iPhone designs. Additionally, the company is exploring curved glass cases that would give future iPhones a more fluid, wrapped aesthetic distinct from current flat-edged designs.
MacDailyNews Take: These developments underscore Apple’s push toward greater vertical integration and differentiation in hardware, aiming to reduce reliance on third-party components while introducing novel user experiences. Plans remain subject to change as Apple refines its internal projects.

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[Thanks to MacDailyNews Reader “Fred Mertz” for the heads up.]
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