MediaTek may have won a contract for the Apple HomePod wireless chip, could build 5G modems for iPhones



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MediaTek, the fabless semiconductor company based in Taiwan, will likely provide wireless chips for Apple's HomePod speakers. DigiTimes reports that Apple is still evaluating its ability to produce a key component for 5G iPhones

The report notes that Apple might be looking to change modem providers before launching networks 5G cell. The Cupertino-based iPhone maker is engaged in a battle with Qualcomm on royalties and patent licensing and is expected to seek to get rid of the San Diego-based chip maker for the future supply of modems. It is thought that Apple is looking at the MediaTek Helio M70 modem, which is expected to hit the market six months earlier than expected and reach speeds of up to 5Gbps on next-generation 5G networks.

The MediaTek Helio M70 Modem, like Apple The A Series chipset is manufactured by TSMC using a 7-nanometer process and will offer energy efficiency and performance that can compete with Qualcomm's and Samsung's modems. Apple has been working to replace Qualcomm modems on its existing handsets due to the ongoing dispute, but Intel, the second largest supplier, continued to suffer from performance issues and recently lost its CEO Brian Krzanich in unusual circumstances.

For MediaTek, an Apple contract could serve as a new life, given that its presence is limited to low-cost smartphone manufacturers As a price, it would also be a major change for Apple, known for its partnerships with the biggest names in the industry, Huawei being the only other company capable of providing 5G compatible modems. The report adds that there is no formal contract yet with MediaTek-Apple for 5G modems, but the Taiwanese company is eager to win the Apple business. on the product roadmap and MediaTek's ability to reliably deliver millions of modem parts needed for the flagship smartphone.

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DigiTimes also reports that MediaTek has created a custom chips for individual customers. As part of this project, it is said that MediaTek is working on a custom WiFi chip for Apple's HomePod speakers, which will likely be a precursor to the 5G modem's commitment. Apple HomePod is not a consumer product like iPhone and this project will help businesses work together.


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