Intel would become one of Apple's new partners for iPhone 7 launch, the computer processor manufacturer going to provide Apple with something different, specifically a GSM modem based on which the smartphone will work.
The information comes from a financial institution in the US that seems to have discussed with Asian partners of the Apple company, and Intel would provide the XMM 7360 modem chip for iPhone 7 starting this year, marking the first collaboration with Apple in this segment.
According to this source, until 40% of the modems used in iPhone 7 would be provided by Intel, the percentage being very high if we consider that Apple is starting a new partnership with a company from which it has never bought components of this kind.
Until now, Apple has used Qualcomm modems in the iPhone and iPad, but with iPhone 7 it seems that he will call on Intel and the modem XMM 7360, this being launched last year by the Americans, offering performance as good as the top Qualcomm models.
Intel will supply a "significant portion" (said to be 30%-40%) of the cellular modems into Apple Lossless Audio CODEC (ALAC),'s next-generation iPhone, known as the iPhone 7. The information apparently comes from "Asian supply chain checks." Additionally, CLSA apparently claims that the iPhone 7 represents a roughly $1 billion opportunity for Intel's struggling mobile group.
Modem XMM 7360 of Intel is able to offer internet download speeds of up to 450 Mbps via LTE networks, but it is produced using a 28nm manufacturing process.
The latest Qualcomm modems that may be available for iPhone 7 offers speeds up to 600 Mbps and they are produced using a 20nm manufacturing process, so it is hard to say if Intel will really be chosen.
If Apple still decides to buy modems from Intel, then we are talking about one contract that could exceed 1 billion dollars, Intel in dire need of serious revenue for the mobile division.
