A Qualcomm modem study suggests that its modems outperform Apple's first in-house modem chip, the C1, especially in challenging urban network conditions.
The study conducted by Cellular Insights, funded by Qualcomm, compared the performance of iPhone 16e with Apple's C1 modem against Android smartphones powered by Qualcomm chips on T-Mobile's 5G network in New York City.
Results of the study showed that Android devices using Qualcomm modems exhibited download speeds up to 35% faster and upload speeds up to 91% quicker than the iPhone 16e with the C1 chip, particularly in busy networks, indoor areas, and locations far from cell towers.
The study also raised concerns about the iPhone 16e's thermal management, indicating potential issues with energy efficiency that could impact performance and user experience, highlighting the high stakes in the technological rivalry between Qualcomm and Apple.