Archive · 28 May 2025
Qualcomm Study: Qualcomm Modems Outperform Apple's C1 in iPhone 16e Tests
Qualcomm, which makes chips for phones, had a study done to see how its chips worked compared to Apple's C1 chip in the new iPhone 16e.
The tests were done in New York City using T-Mobile's 5G network.
The study showed Qualcomm's chips were faster, especially for downloading and uploading data.
This means phones with Qualcomm chips might work better.
The study also noted the iPhone got hot and dimmed its screen during tests.
While Apple's CEO said the iPhone 16e modem is the most energy-efficient ever, Qualcomm is questioning Apple's choice and the C1's real-world performance.
Qualcomm questions Apple's decision to use its in-house C1 modem in iPhone 16e.
A Qualcomm-commissioned study found its modems outperformed Apple's C1 in NYC on T-Mobile's 5G.
iPhone 16e download speeds were up to 35% slower; uploads, up to 91% slower, than Qualcomm-powered phones.
The study indicated the iPhone 16e got hot and dimmed its screen during testing.
Apple CEO Tim Cook said the iPhone 16e rollout was successful and has the most energy-efficient modem.
- Who
- Qualcomm commissioned the study to compare its modems with Apple's C1.
- What
- A study comparing Qualcomm modems against Apple's C1 modem performance in the iPhone 16e.
- When
- The study's results were recently released.
- Where
- The study was conducted in New York City on T-Mobile's 5G network.
- Why
- To show Qualcomm modems' performance compared to Apple's C1, and raise questions about Apple's modem choice.
Qualcomm
Apple
Modem Performance
Qualcomm
Qualcomm modems provide superior performance, especially in challenging network conditions.
Apple
The iPhone 16e rollout with the C1 modem was successful, and features the most energy-efficient modem in an iPhone.
- Study Commissioned By
- Qualcomm
- Modem Tested
- Apple C1 Modem
- Phone Tested
- iPhone 16e
- Study Location
- New York City
- Network Used
- T-Mobile 5G
- Performance Difference
- Up to 35% slower download; up to 91% slower upload speeds for iPhone 16e
