Rumor: Apple is working on its own cellular modem (which makes sense)

A new report from The Information says Apple is working on its own cellular modem, although it could take up to three years before they appear in iPhones and other products. That sounds right.

The Information notes a new job posting by Apple for a “Cellular Modem Systems Architect — Platform Architecture.” Here’s the job description: 

“Imagine what you could do here. At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there’s no telling what you could accomplish. Dynamic, smart people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here.

“Join us to help deliver the next groundbreaking Apple product. Do you love working on challenges that no one has solved yet? Are you ready to join a team transforming hardware technology? We are searching for a talented engineer with 5+/- years experience to join our exciting team of innovators.

“In this role, you will be a key member of the wireless architecture team working on modem systems architecture aspects for the L1/physical layer.”

Chances this rumor is true, according to the Sellers Research Group (that’s me): 99%. It makes sense considering Apple’s ongoing battle with Qualcomm. Plus, the company is making its own A series of processors and bbuilding more wireless components for its own devices, putting its own Bluetooth and Wi-Fi chips into the latest Apple Watches and AirPods. Making its own cellular modem is a logical step in this progression.