Apple is taking another significant step toward reducing its reliance on third-party suppliers with the development of its own custom-designed Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip, codenamed “Proxima.” This chip will debut in 2025 with updated versions of the HomePod mini and Apple TV. Manufactured by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), the Proxima chip will support Wi-Fi 6E, offering enhanced bandwidth and faster data speeds for Apple’s home products. The chip is expected to improve the integration and synchronization of Apple devices, providing a more seamless experience for users.
Proxima’s arrival marks a crucial part of Apple’s ongoing strategy to create more in-house components and reduce dependence on external suppliers. While the first iteration of the chip may not immediately match the capabilities of current industry leaders like Broadcom, it represents a key step toward Apple’s goal of achieving greater silicon independence. Following its introduction in HomePod mini and Apple TV, Apple plans to integrate the Proxima chip into its iPhones in 2025, with iPads and Macs expected to follow in 2026.
This chip development is part of a broader effort by Apple to build custom hardware solutions. The company is also working on a custom cellular modem, codenamed “Sinope,” which will appear in the 2025 iPhone SE. Apple’s long-term goal is to reduce reliance on suppliers like Qualcomm, aiming to have its modem technology surpass Qualcomm’s by 2027. By advancing its wireless technology, Apple is positioning itself for a more energy-efficient and integrated ecosystem across all its devices.
