Apple Unveils New Wireless Chip Upgrades for iPhone 18 Pro

Analyst report reveals two in-house wireless chip upgrades, smaller Dynamic Island, and more for flagship iPhone models

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

According to a new report, Apple's upcoming iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max will feature two new in-house wireless chips designed to boost performance and efficiency. The devices are also expected to include a smaller Dynamic Island, support for mmWave 5G, and Apple's first 2nm A20 Pro chipset.

Why it matters

The wireless chip upgrades and other hardware improvements in the iPhone 18 Pro lineup are expected to provide significant performance and connectivity enhancements for users. As Apple continues to reduce its reliance on third-party components, these in-house wireless chips could give the company more control over the user experience.

The details

According to the report, the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max will feature the N2 wireless networking chip, which is the direct successor to the N1 chip. While details on the N2's improvements over the N1 are limited, the new devices are also expected to include Apple's C2 5G modem chip, which will support both mmWave and sub-6GHz 5G networks for the first time. The C2 chip is also said to be manufactured on TSMC's 4nm process for improved power efficiency.

  • The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are expected to launch in September 2026.

The players

Apple

The multinational technology company that designs, develops, and sells consumer electronics, computer software, and online services.

Jeff Pu

An analyst at GF Securities who authored the research note detailing the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro upgrades.

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What they’re saying

“No improvements from the N2 wireless networking chip upgrade have been mentioned in the new report, but C2 5G modem could bring mmWave support”

— Jeff Pu, Analyst (MacRumors)

What’s next

Apple is expected to officially unveil the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max in September 2026, with the devices likely going on sale shortly after the announcement.

The takeaway

Apple's continued investment in developing its own wireless chips and other custom components for the iPhone 18 Pro lineup signals the company's commitment to maintaining tight control over the hardware and software experience. These upgrades could help differentiate the flagship iPhones and provide users with enhanced performance and connectivity.