自研基带芯片，能帮苹果省多少钱？

Core Viewpoint - Apple is expanding its self-developed chip strategy, particularly with the introduction of its 5G modem chip, C1, which is expected to significantly reduce costs and enhance its competitive position in the smartphone market [1][2]. Group 1: Cost Analysis and Savings - The Bill of Materials (BoM) cost for the iPhone 16e shows that Apple's internal development accounts for 40% of the total component cost, driven by the baseband chip, transceiver, and related PMIC [1]. - Each device utilizing Apple's 5G solution is projected to save approximately $10, leading to an estimated total savings of $220 million if the iPhone 16e ships 22 million units this year [2]. - If Apple scales up to 200 million units annually, the cost savings from the baseband chip alone could reach $2 billion, equivalent to approximately 65 billion New Taiwan Dollars [2]. Group 2: Chip Development and Technology - Apple has transitioned from using Qualcomm's chips to its own C1 modem in the iPhone 16e, marking a significant shift in its supply chain strategy [5][20]. - The C1 modem is built on TSMC's 4nm process, which offers a substantial increase in integration density compared to Intel's previous 14nm technology, making the C1's circuitry approximately 2.5 to 3 times larger than Intel's last modem [18]. - The C1 modem incorporates advanced features such as a MEMS oscillator instead of a crystal oscillator, showcasing Apple's innovation in chip design [9]. Group 3: Market Position and Future Prospects - Apple is a major client of TSMC, which has seen its revenue from advanced processes (7nm and below) exceed 70%, indicating strong demand for cutting-edge semiconductor technology [2]. - TSMC's investment in the U.S. is expected to bolster its capacity for producing advanced chips, with 30% of its sub-2nm capacity projected to be manufactured in Arizona, supporting clients like Apple, NVIDIA, and Qualcomm [2]. - The introduction of the C1 modem is part of Apple's broader strategy to develop proprietary chips for various functions, including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, indicating a long-term vision for self-sufficiency in critical components [21].