The biggest Apple news for the day is that the Cupertino-based smartphone manufacturer is planning a redesign of its iPhone antennas and with it by making ‘vast changes’ they could add an improved wireless performance on their upcoming 2019 iPhones. The 2019 iPhone 1 isn’t expected to come with 5G capabilities; however, with the alterations Apple is said to make, it could be more beneficial to users in the short-term period.
While rival manufacturers are already unveiling their 5G smartphones and carriers getting ready the world over to launch their 5G networks, Apple is believed to be waiting until 2020 to introduce its first 5G handset. This time-frame is the earliest we expect Apple to launch its first 5G handset.
The reason for Apple delaying the arrival of 5G is mainly due to intentional patience as well as a practical one. Apple in the past has proved time and again that they will not rush to the latest wireless solution until it is build up is properly rolled out across the world. The brand doesn’t believe in half-baked products and this is where intentional patience comes in. Also, Apple had long been rumoured to be relying on Intel for its 5G modems, however, since the iPhone manufacturer has settled its lawsuit with Qualcomm, they will now depend on the latter for its 5G modems. Since Intel has pulled out of the 5G game, it will be Qualcomm’s chipset that is expected to drive the cellular aspect of Apple’s 5G-capable iPhone.
MacRumors states that before Apple switches to 5G, they will alter their antennas from Liquid Crystal Polymer (LCP) antennas to modified-PI antenna technology, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. Investors were briefed regarding the same by the TF Securities analyst.
The current crop of iPhones which include the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max and iPhone XR all feature LCP antennas; however, this solution has not worked in Apple’s favour as there have been technological limitations observed. The analyst states that the overall radio performance has been affected due to the LCP antennas. To sort out this issue, Apple will shift to a modified-PI antenna for its 2019 iPhones.
LCP is said to be far superior technology and in theory, it offers better performance; however, this hasn’t worked so well for Apple as it has failed to advance at a rapid rate. Modified-PI, on the other hand, is said to be easier to produce and it’s cheaper as well.
The report cites Kuo as stating that the switch from LCP to modified-PI is a stop-gap and with the 2020 5G iPhones, Apple will move back to LCP antennas. This prediction is done with hopes that by the time the 5G iPhones roll-out, the technology would have advanced enough making the more expensive technology worthwhile. The upcoming iPad will continue to use LCP antennas.
While antennas may not be as exciting as other components of smartphones such as cameras or processors, the point of getting the best possible wireless performance is significant. If there is a way for Apple to get the best possible performance from its 2019 iPhone radios without the implementation of 5G, this modified-PI solution could tide them along at least till next year.
Disclaimer: The above report is completely based on online rumours and leaks from the respective sources. These views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of Deccan Chronicle and/or other staff and contributors to this website.
