So, I mentioned the Apple C1 Modem when it came out as part of the iPhone 16e launch, and notably, there was a lot of listener interest. And now we know how good it is.
In a recent analysis by Ookla, the C1 performed impressively, achieving average download speeds of 560 megabits per second for the top 90 percent of users on major networks like AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile. In comparison, the standard iPhone 16, equipped with a Qualcomm chip, recorded average speeds of 756 megabits per second. However, the C1 modem outperformed the Qualcomm model in the bottom 10 percent of speed tests, reaching nearly 218 megabits per second. The C1 also excelled in upload speeds across nearly all tests, reinforcing Apple’s claim that it is the most power-efficient modem ever used in an iPhone. While the C1 does lack support for ultrawideband 5G, Apple’s investment in developing in-house modems appears to be a promising move, with plans for future iterations, including the upcoming C2 and an integrated all-purpose processor.
And while I’m on phones, Verizon has launched its satellite messaging service, now available to owners of select Android smartphones, including the Google Pixel 9 and Samsung Galaxy S25 series. Verizon plans to roll out necessary upgrades over the next two weeks.
Why do we care?
Chips are interesting again, considering the AI context, and Apple’s C1 modem is more than just a first-gen in-house chip—it’s a shot across Qualcomm’s bow, and a foundational move for Apple’s vertical integration. Yes, it lags behind Qualcomm in top-end performance but that’s a misleading headline if you’re only focused on raw throughput. Apple didn’t optimize for peak speeds; they optimized for efficiency and consistency.
The C1’s 218 Mbps in poor conditions outperforms Qualcomm, and that matters more for real-world usage. Many mobile users live in the long tail of network conditions—urban density, building interference, and rural coverage gaps. Better low-end performance = more consistent experience = fewer support calls and improved customer satisfaction.
Small business users and field workers often rely on upload performance for photos, video, remote desktop, or file sync. This is a competitive edge for the iPhone 16e, especially in power-constrained environments.
If the devices end up more reliable over time, this translates to better managed iOS devices.