Compatibility with 5G networks can be one of the best features of most iPhone 12 models that Apple will launch next September. After resuming relations with Qualcomm, the US chipset manufacturer is expected to be responsible for supplying the modems. In fact, even the company's chief executive said that his priority was to launch the iPhone with 5G as soon as possible.
However, it seems Apple has no desire to use the Qualcomm antenna module. Per account Fast Company
Apple will continue to use the 5G Snapdragon X55 modem
Cityertino would continue to use the 5G Snapdragon X55 modem, as was rumored over the past few months. This modem is the same as it is integrated with the Samsung Galaxy S20. However, Apple is also working on a variant that can include the entire antenna module and modem, and could be the default option by the end of the year, a source said. This unique design may be bigger than Apple would want for a final smartphone.
This is a problem for Apple, and that's it designing antennas is not easy, and small antennas are compatible with 5G mmWave networks, because these antennas send and receive much higher frequency signals than previous generations, and there is no chance of errors in their design and operation. Failure, however small, may lead to future communication problems.
The iPhone 5G will have a "phase array" antenna, with two components working together to form a radio signal beam. This beam can be guided electronically in different ways without the movement of the antenna. We will have to wait for the progress of this issue to see if Apple is finally stepping out to make it a bigger iPhone to integrate Qualcomm components, or a smaller one with its own antennas.
Source | Fast Company
