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The iPhone 17 series is still several months from its official release, yet this has not hindered speculation about the forthcoming iPhone 18 series. Recently, a well-known analyst suggested that the Pro models of the iPhone 18 will feature Apple's second-generation modem. Apple first launched its proprietary modem, the C1, alongside the iPhone 16e. This initial modem is designed to provide fast and dependable 5G connectivity. According to a report by 9to5mac, analyst Jeff Pu from GF Securities shared his outlook for the iPhone 18 series in a recent investor note. He anticipates that the C2 modem will be included in the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max models set for release in 2026. This is not the first indication of the second-generation Apple modem’s development, as Bloomberg's Mark Gurman mentioned back in February that Apple plans to integrate the C2 modem into “higher-end iPhones” next year.

In addition, Pu indicated that Apple aims to incorporate the C1 modem in its upcoming iPhone 17 Air; however, this decision might be reversed. It remains unclear whether Apple will utilize the C1 chip in the iPhone 18 models while saving the anticipated C2 for the Pro variants. The company might continue to use the Qualcomm 5G modem in its premium line-up. The C1 modem, which was introduced with the iPhone 16e last month, does not support millimeter-wave (mmWave) technology, which may lead to slower upload and download speeds. A new version of the C1 modem that includes mmWave support is reportedly in development. By rolling out its own chips, Apple aims to reduce its reliance on external suppliers, including Qualcomm.