Current-generation Apple Watch models are only equipped with 4G modems, which limits their functionality compared to the company’s other devices featuring 5G baseband chips, but that could change with the arrival of the Apple Watch Ultra 3. MediaTek, which has previously been rumored to potentially enter the Cupertino firm’s supply chain for modems, could have its parts found in the upcoming Apple Watch Ultra 3, giving it not just a 5G-ready status, but also granting it the ability to communicate with satellites like several iPhones.
MediaTek’s entry into Apple Watch Ultra 3’s supply chain indicates that the plan to introduce in-house 5G modems for smartwatches is still years away
With its recent flagship smartphone chipset releases, not to mention the imminent arrival of the Dimensity 9500, MediaTek has proven that it is not just a market leader for lower-end products, but can stand ‘toe to toe’ with the likes of Qualcomm in premium SoCs and connectivity solutions. This impressive business transformation is what likely got the fabless semiconductor manufacturer a contract to supply 5G modems for the Apple Watch Ultra 3, at least that is what Ray Wang’s post, who is a research director, would suggest.
Unfortunately, bringing 5G connectivity and satellite communication might only be exclusive to the Apple Watch Ultra 3, because the remaining models will still be limited to 4G modems. MediaTek’s entry helps to limit Apple’s reliance on Qualcomm and Intel. Additionally, judging from MediaTek’s smartphone chipset revenue for several quarters, the company relies heavily on increased volume rather than charging a higher price per unit, so Apple might have formed a partnership based on this business model alone.
On the thread, an individual with the handle @chyang888 says that MediaTek demonstrated a mobile device capable of satellite communication a few years ago, so it is possible that the chipset maker and Apple were working to come around at a deal, with both firms landing on the Apple Watch Ultra 3. Of course, with the ‘Awe Dropping’ keynote happening tomorrow, we will know soon enough if the flagship smartwatch ships with a 5G modem or not.
News Source: Ray Wang
About the author: Omar Sohail is a reporter and analyst for Wccftech's mobile section, specializing in the technology and business of the mobile industry. His expertise lies in the intricate hardware supply chain, covering developments in semiconductor manufacturing, chip lithography, and camera sensor technology.
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