In mid-April, Apple and Qualcomm announced that they had found common ground after almost two years of a fierce legal battle. This news forced Intel to abandon its efforts in the 5G smartphone modem market, to focus only on modems for laptops and connected devices. We learn today that before its reconciliation with Qualcomm, the Cupertino company would have sought to buy the division of Intel specializes in the design of these famous mobile network chips.
This acquisition would have made sense for Apple, which gradually consolidates the ranks of its engineers responsible for developing a home 5G modem. They would currently be between 1,000 and 2,000 to work on the internal design of a 5G chip capable of equipping the iPhone, of course, but that could also benefit the future iPad Pro, supposed to claim compatibility with the new cellular network by 2021.
Apple and Intel in talks ... until an agreement is reached with Qualcomm
According to the Wall Street Journal (via WCCFTech), Apple has entered into negotiations with Intel over the summer, for a possible takeover of its modem division. These discussions would not have allowed the two parties to agree and would have finally stopped recently, shortly before the peace treaty signed with Qualcomm.
However, it is not impossible that Intel chooses to divest itself of its modem branch. Apple could then become a buyer, but Intel could also choose to sell to another player in the market, even to cut the grass under the feet of Tim Cook's firm.
Reliance on Qualcomm remains the safest solution for Apple
If a takeover of the modem division of Intel would probably allow Apple to accelerate the design of its own 5G chips, WCCFTech reminds that the development of this kind of technology is a complex and long-term adventure. As is, and even with the help provided through this possible takeover, Apple would have a hard time delivering a fully functional 5G modem for several years.
By partnering again with Qualcomm, Apple makes sure to save time and be able to offer iPhone 5G from 2020. A niche already late against Samsung and Huawei, who introduced 5G smartphones early in the year. 'year.
Intel, for its part, promises to honor contracts previously signed with Apple: the iPhone 2019 will therefore be well equipped with 4G modems chips signed Intel.
