Apple to Reportedly Use In-House Wi-Fi Chip in 2025 iPads

According to a DigiTimes report, Apple is currently working on developing its own Wi-Fi chips, with the possibility of introducing them in new iPad models by 2025 (via MacRumors).

Citing sources within Apple’s supply chain, the report indicates that while the introduction of an Apple-designed Wi-Fi chip in iPads is anticipated for 2025, there is a chance that the project might be delayed until the release of the iPhone 18 series in 2026.

Apple’s long-term ambition to reduce its reliance on third-party suppliers, particularly Broadcom, is believed to be one of the primary motivations behind this move, notes the Taiwanese publication.

Apple’s initiative to design its own Wi-Fi chip has reportedly been in the works since 2021. The shift to developing its own wireless technology aligns with Apple’s broader strategy of gaining more control over the hardware components used in its devices.

Currently, Apple relies on Broadcom to supply the Wi-Fi chips used in iPhones, iPads, and other devices. If successful, the introduction of an in-house Wi-Fi chip would mark another step toward independence, similar to its gradual reduction of reliance on Intel by transitioning to its custom M-series chips for Macs.

However, it remains uncertain if this new Wi-Fi chip will bring any immediate, noticeable improvements to consumer devices beyond reducing Apple’s dependence on Broadcom.

While specific details on the capabilities of Apple’s Wi-Fi chip are still sparse, the tech giant’s decision to bring more component design in-house could potentially result in enhanced performance and greater energy efficiency for future devices.

Currently, Apple’s latest devices, including the iPhone 16 series, support Wi-Fi 7, a cutting-edge standard that promises significantly faster speeds compared to Wi-Fi 6E.

Wi-Fi 7, which requires compatible routers, is touted to be four times faster than its predecessor, though the widespread availability of Wi-Fi 7 routers is still limited.