Apple's 5G iPhone: Looming on the Horizon in 2020?
Apple, as always, has maintained silence on the release of an iPhone with 5G capabilities for 2019. With Qualcomm now resupplying Apple, the anticipation is building, but is a 5G iPhone imminent in 2019?
The Timing of 5G Deployment
The rumor sites largely agree that any 5G iPhone will not be available until 2020. The reasoning behind this delay lies in the current state of 5G network coverage and the complexity of integrating 5G technology into the iPhone.
No Network, No 5G iPhone
Despite the aggressive marketing efforts of mobile operators, there is currently no widespread 5G network. Until mid-2020s, consumers are likely to continue relying on 4G networks for mobile broadband. This reality underscores the impracticality of an all-5G iPhone launch in 2019.
A Possible Alternative Path
While the current 5G rollout is slow, Apple may have a contingency plan. In the realm of Internet of Things (IoT), autonomous driving, and eHealth, 5G technology could be crucial. Apple could position its chip supply agreement with Qualcomm to focus on developing 5G-capable devices for these emerging markets.
With a monthly growing demand for advanced technology, Apple is positioning itself strategically in anticipation of future market needs. Apple could potentially leverage Qualcomm's 5G technology to create a strong foothold in these burgeoning sectors. However, this strategy requires robust 5G network coverage, which is currently not available in a significant capacity for consumer use.
Qualcomm Supplying Apple: A Signal for 5G
The news of Qualcomm resupplying Apple with chipset technology is a significant development. Qualcomm's supply chain plays a critical role in the integration of 5G technology, and its return to Apple's ecosystem marks a milestone for both companies.
Qualcomm's chipset technology is essential for delivering the advanced features that 5G promises, including ultra-fast speeds, low latency, and enhanced network capacity. The supply of these components by Qualcomm could accelerate Apple's 5G deployment strategy, but again, this is contingent on network coverage being sufficiently robust.
The Reality of 5G in 2019
While 5G technology is on the horizon, the practical realities of 2019 suggest that a widespread rollout is not imminent. Verizon, with its aggressive marketing, might create the illusion of a 5G future, but the real-world availability of 5G networks is still limited.
As of now, there is very little 5G coverage in the US, and it's unlikely that there will be a substantial increase in coverage by the end of the year. While Apple may be working on 5G technology for future iPhone models, a 5G release in 2019 is not a realistic expectation.
By 2020, the landscape may shift, and more networks could be up and running, potentially allowing Apple to launch a 5G iPhone. This timeline aligns with Apple's strategic roadmap, and while there is no official announcement, the company's long-term vision likely includes a 5G-capable iPhone.
In conclusion, while Qualcomm's re-supply to Apple is an encouraging development, the widespread availability of 5G networks and user experience are the key factors dictating whether a 5G iPhone will be released in 2019. The market is eagerly watching as the 2020 horizon approaches, but for now, 5G iPhones remain a tantalizing prospect for the future.