But in 2019, Apple bought Intel's modem business with the view of designing its own modem in-house, much like it does with its smartphone processors.
It has taken some time for Apple to release its first modem and it did so quietly with the launch of the iPhone 16e last month. The cellular modem is called the C1.
This week, Qualcomm announced the X85, its latest high-end modem. In an interview with CNBC on Tuesday, Amon touted the improved performance of the modem, suggesting it would create a big gulf between it and Apple.