Qualcomm CEO: Snapdragon to Power iPhones by 2027
SAN DIEGO — Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon announced on March 6, 2025, that his company expects to supply Apple with an iPhone-compatible Snapdragon chip by 2027. Speaking at a tech conference in San Diego, Amon reaffirmed a bold prediction he made earlier. He believes Qualcomm's advanced modem technology will soon power iPhones, ending years of speculation. This move could shift the smartphone industry, as Apple has relied on its own chips lately.
A Big Bet on Modems
Qualcomm has long been a leader in mobile chip technology. Its Snapdragon chips already power many Android phones and Windows laptops. Amon’s prediction hinges on the new X85 modem, unveiled in early 2025. This modem boasts faster speeds and better AI features than Apple’s current C1 modem. “In the age of AI, modems matter more than ever,” Amon told CNBC in an interview. He thinks consumers will want the best modem tech, giving Qualcomm an edge.
The timeline fits with Apple’s plans too. In February 2025, Apple revealed its first custom modem chip, aiming to cut ties with Qualcomm. But experts say Apple’s chip lags behind in speed and efficiency. Qualcomm expects its deal with Apple, which lasts until 2027, to open the door for Snapdragon modems in iPhones. This could mark a major comeback for Qualcomm in Apple’s supply chain.
Why This Matters
Apple and Qualcomm have a rocky history. For years, Qualcomm supplied modems for iPhones. Then, in 2019, legal fights pushed Apple to design its own chips. The two companies settled, and Qualcomm kept providing modems under a licensing deal. That deal runs through 2027, but Amon predicts Apple won’t fully ditch Qualcomm. Why? The X85 modem’s performance could outshine Apple’s early efforts.
The X85 modem, set to launch in the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 2 chip in October 2025, promises big upgrades. It offers faster downloads and better battery life, key for AI-driven phones. Meanwhile, Apple’s custom modem, debuting in the iPhone SE 4, may lack features like mmWave 5G. Analysts say Qualcomm’s tech could tempt Apple to keep using Snapdragon chips, at least for some models.
What’s Next for Qualcomm?
Qualcomm isn’t stopping at phones. The company is pushing into PCs and other devices with Snapdragon chips. Amon sees AI as the future, and modems as the backbone. If his 2027 prediction holds, Qualcomm could regain a huge chunk of Apple’s business. That would boost its stock and solidify its role in the tech world.
Still, challenges remain. Apple’s push for independence is strong. Its custom modem may improve by 2027, closing the gap with Qualcomm. Plus, Android makers like Samsung could fight back with their own chips. For now, Amon’s confidence is clear. He’s betting big on Snapdragon’s power to win over iPhone users.
Looking Ahead
This prediction could reshape the smartphone market. If Qualcomm powers iPhones by 2027, it might spark a new era of competition. Consumers could see faster, smarter phones. Apple might rethink its all-in-house strategy. Meanwhile, Qualcomm’s rivals will scramble to keep up.
The next few years will tell the tale. Will Apple stick to its own path, or lean on Qualcomm’s expertise? Tech fans and investors are watching closely. Amon’s vision hinges on delivering top-notch tech by 2027. If he’s right, Qualcomm could ride a wave of success. If not, Apple’s independence might leave Qualcomm in the dust.
References:
- Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon repeats his ‘iPhone prediction’ for 2027 – The Times of India
- Qualcomm introduces X85 chip, says it leaves Apple’s C1 modem far behind – Business Today
- Apple reveals first custom modem chip, shifting away from Qualcomm – Reuters
- Qualcomm’s X85 modem to debut in Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 2 – CNBC