Apple is working on designing more components in-house as it seeks to reduce its reliance on its supply chain for certain iPhone components. The company is looking to develop more control over production and avoid doing business with major iPhone rivals such as Samsung and Qualcomm.
According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple is working on several DIY projects, including a 5G modem chip for the iPhone. This is a high priority for Apple, as it initially hoped to have this chip ready for this year’s iPhone 15 line.
Apple is also looking to design internal versions of a combined Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip to replace current components purchased from Broadcom. Additionally, the company is working on a project to produce micro-LED displays, which are expected to eventually be used in the Apple Watch.
The company is also considering designing its own camera sensors and is working on a non-invasive blood glucose monitor for the Apple Watch. However, while Apple is focused on designing these components, it will still need to find a manufacturing partner, similar to its approach with the A-series application processor for the iPhone.
Overall, by designing its own components, Apple aims to add features that may not be possible when using off-the-shelf parts.
