Google has grafted a Rust-based component into the Pixel 10 modem to enforce memory safety and harden DNS parsing, reducing remote-code-execution risk in legacy C/C++ modem firmware without a full rewrite.
A Reddit post reports a hardware-level failure in Apple's in-house C1X 5G modem in the iPhone Air, with the device losing cellular reception and showing no signal despite troubleshooting; Apple typically investigates and replaces defective units, but there’s no evidence yet of a widespread issue. The C1X is expected to appear in the iPhone 17e next month, with rumors of a next-gen C2 modem in future models.
KB5074109 removes several legacy modem drivers (agrsm64.sys, agrsm.sys, smserl64.sys, smserial.sys), causing some modems to stop working. Microsoft says the change is a deliberate security measure, not a bug, and recommends uninstalling or pausing the update as a temporary workaround while affected hardware and drivers are updated.
The Google Pixel 11 series is rumored to feature a new MediaTek M90 modem, supporting advanced 5G features and satellite connectivity, marking a potential shift from previous models that used Samsung's Exynos modem. However, this information is unconfirmed and should be taken with caution.
Qualcomm's CEO Cristiano Amon discusses the company's strategic shift away from reliance on Apple, planning for a future where Apple uses its own modems, and highlights growth opportunities in Android, automotive, IoT, and AI server chips, aiming to remain a disruptive player in a competitive market.
A Qualcomm-commissioned study shows its modem chips outperform Apple's in dense urban environments, highlighting the performance gap with Apple's in-house C1 modem in the iPhone 16e, especially in 5G download and upload speeds, raising questions about Apple's in-house chip development efforts.
François Bayrou, a centrist political veteran and ally of President Emmanuel Macron, has been appointed as France's new prime minister following the ousting of Michel Barnier. Bayrou, who leads the MoDem party, faces the challenge of navigating a hung parliament and passing a 2025 budget amid political turmoil. His success will depend on building coalitions across the political spectrum, including neutralizing the far-right and negotiating with the moderate left, while maintaining fiscal discipline.
Apple's upcoming iPhone 17 Air is expected to be the thinnest iPhone ever, thanks to a new in-house modem that allows for a slimmer design. The phone will be approximately 25% thinner than current models, featuring a single 48-megapixel camera and a 6.6-inch display. The new modem, which will also debut in the iPhone SE, is more space-efficient and power-saving, contributing to the phone's lightweight and stylish design. Despite its thinner build, the modem's performance may not match the top speeds of current Qualcomm modems, though this might not impact everyday use.
Apple's upcoming iPhone 17 Air is expected to be the thinnest iPhone ever, thanks to a new in-house modem that allows for a slimmer design. The modem, initially set to debut in the iPhone SE, will be integrated into the iPhone 17 Air, making it approximately 2mm thinner than the iPhone 16 Pro. This design-focused model will feature a 6.6-inch display and a single rear camera. While the new modem may not match the performance of current Qualcomm modems, it is expected to offer sufficient real-world speeds for users.
Apple is making significant strides in technology with the development of its in-house modem, Sinope, which aims to replace Qualcomm components and enhance device capabilities. The company is also planning to launch a foldable iPhone by 2026, potentially revitalizing the foldable smartphone market. CEO Tim Cook discussed future plans, including a new camera button for the iPhone 16 and Vision Pro sales. Despite a slowdown in sales, Apple's stock reached a new high, and the most popular free iPhone apps in the U.S. continue to be dominated by games and social media.
Apple's upcoming iPhone 17 range is expected to include the iPhone 17 Air, touted as the thinnest iPhone ever at 6.25mm, which is 2mm thinner than the iPhone 16 Pro. This design feat is made possible by a new in-house modem that integrates more efficiently with other components, reducing space and power requirements. While the modem may not match the performance of current high-end models, its real-world impact on speed is expected to be minimal. The iPhone 17 Air will focus on design, featuring a 6.6-inch display and a single rear camera.
Apple is exploring the integration of its custom 5G modems into Macs, potentially bringing cellular connectivity to its computer lineup. The company is developing three modem variants, with the first expected to launch in budget iPhones and iPads next year. While a cellular Mac could be available by 2026, Apple is likely waiting for its modems to outperform Qualcomm's before release. This move could significantly benefit professionals who require constant connectivity.
Apple is developing its own modem technology, codenamed Sinope, to replace Qualcomm components in its devices over the next three years. This move aims to create slimmer iPhones and introduce cellular capabilities to Macs and headsets. The first device to feature the new modem will be the iPhone SE, launching next year, followed by Apple's thinnest phone yet in 2025. This transition could also lead to foldable devices and cellular connectivity in Macs by 2026. Apple's stock has seen a slight decline, but overall, shares have gained 30.81% year-to-date.
Apple is developing its own 5G modem, aiming to eventually surpass Qualcomm's performance. Despite setbacks, the first Apple modem is expected in the next iPhone SE, with plans for a second-generation modem featuring mmWave in 2026. By 2027, Apple hopes its "Prometheus" modem will support AI and advanced satellite networks, potentially outperforming Qualcomm. The initial modem may lack some features like mmWave and six-carrier aggregation, but will support dual SIM standby.
Apple is set to launch its own cellular modem chips next spring, aiming to replace Qualcomm components in its devices. This in-house modem system, which has been in development for over five years, will first appear in the updated iPhone SE, marking a significant step in Apple's strategy to reduce reliance on Qualcomm by 2027.