Qualcomm's iPhone 7 Plus modem beats Intel modem in areas with weak signal
The Qualcomm modem used in some versions of the iPhone 7 and 7 Plus performs markedly better than the Intel one, at least where signal might be poor, according to research published on Thursday.
Using equipment to simulate LTE performance at varying distances from an celltower, there was -- overall -- a roughly 30 percent gap between Qualcomm- and Intel-equipped versions of the 7 Plus, Cellular Insights remarked. While both models should operate identically under good conditions, Qualcomm units have faster downloads where signal is fainter.
Intel-based 7 Plus models did badly compared to several other smartphones, including the iPhone 6s, LG G5, Google Nexus 5X, and Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge. Of those, the S7 Edge topped performance charts.
The Intel-based 7 Plus performed so poorly, in fact, that Cellular Insights bought a second unit in case the first was defective, but results were said to be nearly identical.
Intel's modem is also worse in that it only supports GSM-based networks, like AT&T and T-Mobile. Qualcomm's modems for the iPhone 6s and 7 are compatible with CDMA networks as well, making it easier to switch carriers.
Apple appears to have chosen Intel modems for AT&T and T-Mobile versions of the phone to diversify its supply chain, which was previously locked into Qualcomm. By having more than one supplier, Apple can force price competition, and/or better meet demand.
Using equipment to simulate LTE performance at varying distances from an celltower, there was -- overall -- a roughly 30 percent gap between Qualcomm- and Intel-equipped versions of the 7 Plus, Cellular Insights remarked. While both models should operate identically under good conditions, Qualcomm units have faster downloads where signal is fainter.
Intel-based 7 Plus models did badly compared to several other smartphones, including the iPhone 6s, LG G5, Google Nexus 5X, and Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge. Of those, the S7 Edge topped performance charts.
The Intel-based 7 Plus performed so poorly, in fact, that Cellular Insights bought a second unit in case the first was defective, but results were said to be nearly identical.
Intel's modem is also worse in that it only supports GSM-based networks, like AT&T and T-Mobile. Qualcomm's modems for the iPhone 6s and 7 are compatible with CDMA networks as well, making it easier to switch carriers.
Apple appears to have chosen Intel modems for AT&T and T-Mobile versions of the phone to diversify its supply chain, which was previously locked into Qualcomm. By having more than one supplier, Apple can force price competition, and/or better meet demand.
Comments
No, the Qualcomm’s MDM9645M modem, which powers the (A1660, A1661) Verizon, Sprint, and SIM-free models, features better cellular performance than the AT&T version (A1778, A1784) Intel version.
I bet this is a case where you can measure the difference between two components, but in the real world won't ever notice a difference do to the rapidly changing conditions of your cellular signal. Sort of like antennagate where cell providers stated the iPhone 4 had better performance and fewer dropped calls than the 3GS it replaced, but because some 300lb sweaty palm douche with his Vulcan grip trying to get reception in his moms basement was able to affect the signal bars it somehow means there's a problem.
In order to support 4-5k graphics throughput and ThunderBolt 3.1 Apple would need Kaby Lake (not a cut-down version either). Intel does not seem to have been in a cooperative mood so I wonder if they have been holding out on Apple without business quid-pro-quo, putting Apple in a position to be the Beta tester for Intel's modem chip set.
Perhaps now we can get a 5k Apple 27" display too with TB 3.1 and various ports?
Perhaps Intel can be persuaded to fix their iPhone modem chips (can the software drivers make up the gap)?
Must order more popcorn.
Examples which come to mind:
- Motorola -> IBM Power
- Mac Clones -> Shut em down | build own hardware
- IBM Power -> Intel
- Microsoft (foot dragging) with Internet Explorer (for Mac OS) -> Apple answers with Safari
- Microsoft (foot dragging) with Office (for Mac OS) -> Apple answers with iWorks
- Samsung iPhone Application Processes -> Apple brings it in house (A Series) and just 'kills it all'
- Google Maps -> iOS Apple native Maps
For better or worse, Apple has shown/proven that if/when hamstrung by a 'supplier', they have a solid plan B in place. All the speculation of Apple possibly running full blown OS X / macOS on A series processors, I would be surprised if they were not. They've moved before, twice (Motorola > IBM, IBM > Intel). If they did it again, no one who has followed Apple history should be surprised.
If you want it done right, you've got to do it yourself - I'm sure it's some un-documented internal Apple philosophy.
What's Bob Mansfield special project that he was brought back for, I wonder!
Definitely will be ordering more popcorn with you.
Was just correcting the quoted post.
That was from 9to5Mac.
https://9to5mac.com/2016/10/20/iphone-7-qualcomm-intel-modem-cellular-performance/
What you're reading is where the article says the Qualcomm chip is only sold in those countries, not that all phones in those countries have them.
Regards,
youre re trying to prove causation where you cannot.