Apple has launched its own 5G modem, the C1 chip, in the iPhone 16e, marking a significant shift away from Qualcomm, which could result in a loss of $7 to $8 billion in annual revenue for the chipmaker. Additionally, Amazon will shut down its Android App Store in August 2025, HP has acquired the struggling startup Humane for $116 million, and several new products, including the iPhone 16e and Amazon’s Wi-Fi 7 routers, have been announced.
In this week’s tech news, Apple has officially launched its own 5G modem, the C1 chip, which is featured in the newly released iPhone 16e. This marks a significant milestone for Apple, as it moves towards greater independence from Qualcomm, which has been a major supplier of wireless chips. The C1 chip is said to be 25% more power-efficient than the previous iPhone 15 modem, although it remains a separate component rather than being integrated into the SoC. While Apple has not disclosed specific speed capabilities, the modem supports worldwide bands and satellite connectivity, indicating potential for future integration into other Apple products.
Qualcomm, which relies heavily on Apple for revenue, is expected to lose a substantial portion of its earnings as Apple transitions to its own modem technology. Analysts estimate that Qualcomm earns around $7 to $8 billion annually from Apple, which is a significant chunk of its overall revenue. The competitive relationship between the two companies has been tense, with Qualcomm’s representatives expressing frustration over Apple’s advancements. As Qualcomm’s licensing agreement with Apple is set to expire in 2027, the future of their partnership remains uncertain.
In other news, Amazon has announced the shutdown of its Android App Store, which will cease operations in August 2025 after 14 years of existence. This decision follows the discontinuation of the Amazon App Store on Windows and reflects a broader trend of consolidation in the app marketplace. While the app store will continue to function on Amazon’s own devices, its closure as a third-party option raises questions about the competitive landscape for app distribution, especially in light of recent regulatory changes in the EU that favor alternative app stores.
The video also covers the unexpected acquisition of Humane, a tech startup, by HP for $116 million. This acquisition comes after Humane faced significant challenges and backlash regarding its AI pen product, which has been criticized for its lack of functionality and poor customer service. HP’s decision to integrate Humane into its operations raises eyebrows, as the company aims to leverage AI technology in its personal computing and printing divisions, despite the troubled history of Humane’s product launch.
Lastly, the video highlights several product releases, including the iPhone 16e, which features a new design and a 48-megapixel camera but comes at a higher price point of $600. Other notable announcements include Amazon’s new Wi-Fi 7 routers and the global launch of Oppo’s Find N5 foldable phone, although it will not be available in North America or Europe. The video concludes with a brief mention of upcoming entertainment releases, including the second season of “The Last of Us” and the new season of “The White Lotus,” along with a promotion for NordVPN, which the host credits for helping maintain connectivity while traveling.