Earlier today, Bloomberg detailed Apple's multi-year plan to ditch Qualcomm and bring its own modem technology to iPhones and iPads.
In a follow-up report this afternoon, Bloomberg reported that Apple is also “exploring the idea of bringing cellular support to the Mac for the first time” as part of that effort.
Apple is expected to introduce the first version of its cellular modem next year in the iPhone SE 4, iPhone 17 Air, and base model iPad. Next year, the company will introduce a more advanced version of the chip with faster 5G connectivity for the iPhone 18 Pro.
As part of this transition, Apple is also exploring the possibility of bringing cellular to the Mac as early as 2026:
With its own modem in development, Apple is exploring the idea of bringing cellular to the Mac for the first time. That means users won't need Wi-Fi to access the internet. That capability is currently reserved for the iPhone, Apple Watch, and iPad. But cellular isn't likely to come to the Mac until 2026, when Apple plans to release a second-generation modem with support for faster speeds.
A cellular version of the Vision Pro is also being considered:
The company is also discussing cellular support in headsets, including future Vision Pro models. The technology could one day be used in lightweight augmented reality glasses, though that device is still a few years away.
Check out our coverage from today for more on Apple's modem plans.
My Favorite Mac Accessories:
- Magic Keyboard with Touch ID (USB-C)
- OVC Thunderbolt 4 11-Port Dock
- Magic Trackpad (USB-C)
- Satechi 200W 6-Port Charging Station
- Twelve South HiRise 3 Deluxe
