Here’s why Apple’s C1 modem is a positive development for the battery life of future MacBooks.

      In 2008, Steve Jobs mentioned that Apple had considered incorporating a 3G modem into its laptops for wireless connectivity without relying on Wi-Fi. However, the company ultimately abandoned the idea due to the chips' significant size, which would not fit well in Apple’s compact laptops. For years, the concept seemed to be shelved.

      Now, two decades after Jobs' honest statement, it may finally become a reality. This development is noteworthy and could offer numerous advantages for MacBook users.

      Journalist Mark Gurman from Bloomberg has highlighted this potential in his Power On newsletter, stating that Apple intends to introduce its proprietary modem chip—first showcased in the recent iPhone 16e—into other Apple devices over the coming years. This will likely include some of the top MacBook models, potentially bringing a variety of benefits.

      As a daily MacBook user, I am eager to see what this could mean for Apple’s laptops in the future. For someone like me, it might even be a compelling reason to consider an upgrade.

      The main benefit of integrating a modem chip into the MacBook is the ability to access wireless internet anywhere, without needing a Wi-Fi connection. This feature is ideal for working remotely and can also help mitigate the security risks associated with unsecured public Wi-Fi networks found in cafes and bars.

      Additionally, we can derive another significant advantage from the iPhone 16e. Apple praised its C1 chip for enhancing battery efficiency, labeling it as “the most power-efficient modem ever on an iPhone.” This improvement has allowed the iPhone 16e to achieve better battery performance than the iPhone 16, which suggests we may expect similar enhancements in the MacBook. Given that the MacBook already excels in battery longevity, this addition could further solidify its reputation.

      I also wouldn’t be surprised to see performance improvements in MacBooks due to the introduction of Apple’s wireless chip. Enhanced efficiency might result in better chip performance because of decreased energy needs for cooling. While I don’t anticipate significant performance gains from the modem alone, with most improvements stemming from advancements in the Apple silicon CPU and GPU, even a minor boost would be appreciated.

      However, it’s important to note that Apple’s modem chips may not solve all issues related to the MacBook. Gurman speculates that the wireless performance of the C1 may not match that of the Qualcomm chip it replaces. While we will need thorough testing to confirm this, if true, it might explain Apple’s lack of emphasis on the C1 at the iPhone 16e launch.

      Furthermore, the MacBook is not expected to utilize the C1 chip. Instead, we will need to wait several years for the first Apple-designed modem to be introduced in MacBooks. For those not planning on upgrading soon, this delay might not pose a significant issue, but it certainly means a wait for others.

      So, when can we expect it? Gurman believes that Apple’s in-house modem will come to the Mac by “2028 at the earliest.” There are clearly several aspects for the company to finalize before that time, which isn’t surprising—Apple has reportedly spent at least six years developing the iPhone’s 5G chip following its acquisition of Intel’s modem division in 2019.

      If Apple continues its pattern of annual product upgrades, the first MacBook modem chip is likely to be the C4. By then, Apple might surpass Qualcomm’s modem capabilities. Gurman seems to believe that Apple will exceed Qualcomm's technology when the C3 chip is launched, indicating that the C4 could be superior to anything Qualcomm offers, making 2028 an ideal year for a modem chip in MacBooks.

      The most frustrating aspect of this situation is the wait for 5G connectivity. I understand the time it takes to perfect technology, especially for a company with Apple’s high standards. But considering all the potential benefits, I would love to see a 5G MacBook released this year.

      Nonetheless, it's reassuring to know that it is in the works. While the wait may test my patience, I am confident that it will ultimately be worthwhile.