Apple to Introduce Custom Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Chips with iPhone 17

Apple’s Custom Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Chips: Reducing Reliance on Broadcom with iPhone 17

Apple is taking another significant step toward self-sufficiency by developing its own custom Bluetooth and Wi-Fi chips. According to a recent Bloomberg report, these new chips are set to debut alongside the iPhone 17 lineup next year, marking a pivotal shift in Apple’s reliance on third-party suppliers like Broadcom.

The custom chip, internally codenamed “Proxima,” will not only feature in the iPhone 17 but also power upcoming Apple TV models and the HomePod mini. This initiative aligns with Apple’s broader strategy to control its hardware ecosystem by transitioning from Intel processors to its proprietary M-series chips. With the launch of the combined Bluetooth and Wi-Fi chip, Apple aims to reduce dependency on Broadcom as its primary supplier in this area.

Efficiency, Innovation, and Cost Control

By integrating Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities into a single component, Apple is targeting improved energy efficiency, extended battery life, and thinner device designs. These enhancements could be seen in the anticipated ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air.

The Bloomberg report further highlights that this transition will allow Apple to cut production costs, which may help keep product pricing competitive. While Apple plans to phase out its reliance on Broadcom for Bluetooth and Wi-Fi chips, it will continue to collaborate with the company on specific technologies, including radio frequency filters for modems and cloud server chips.

A Gradual Transition Across Devices

Apple’s rollout of its custom chips will begin with the iPhone 17 series and gradually extend to Macs and iPads the following year. Although the transition will take several years to complete, it showcases Apple’s commitment to innovation and independence in its hardware development.