Thanks to a new list of job openings at Cupertino, Apple is looking to reduce its reliance on external vendors for radios and modems. The job listings are looking for personnel familiar in LTE, Bluetooth, next generation connectivity (5G) and millimeter wave tech. At this point, Apple still relies on Intel to supply its modems – albeit grudgingly – for devices such as the iPhone and its new MacBooks. This includes both WiFi and LTE radio receivers. The company is expected to launch iPhones with 5G by 2020, giving Apple enough time to start working on the R&D of its modems. In hindsight, making its own chips would provide Apple with several benefits. Chief among which being the elimination of any further lawsuit, such as its on-going legal battle with Qualcomm. The fruit company is well-known for its in-house A-series processors, the latest iteration being its A12X Bionic. Having said that, It still remains to be seen if Apple’s take on an LTE modem would be able to both Intel and Qualcomm a run for their money. (Source: Bloomberg via PhoneArena) Edited by John Law
