Qualcomm-Funded Study Finds Qualcomm's Modems Outperform Apple's C1 Chip in Real-World Tests

A Qualcomm-commissioned study found that Apple's inaugural C1 modem, debuting in the iPhone 16e, significantly underperformed compared to Qualcomm-powered Android devices in challenging network conditions. The research by Cellular Insights tested devices on T-Mobile's 5G network in New York City, where Android phones achieved download speeds up to 35% faster and upload speeds up to 91% quicker than the iPhone 16e.

The performance gap widened when networks were congested or devices operated farther from cell towers -- precisely the scenarios where next-generation modems should excel, according to the report. The iPhone 16e became 'noticeably hot to touch and exhibited aggressive screen dimming within just two-minute test intervals' during testing. This study arrives as Apple attempts to reduce its dependence on Qualcomm, which has historically provided modems for the entire iPhone lineup and represents roughly 20% of Qualcomm's revenue.

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