Core Insights - Apple is making significant progress in developing its own baseband chips, having introduced the self-developed C1 chip in the mid-range iPhone 16e and the upgraded C1X in the newly released iPhone Air, indicating a gradual reduction in reliance on Qualcomm for baseband technology [1][2] - Qualcomm's strategy in response to Apple's move includes strengthening partnerships with Android manufacturers to compensate for the loss of iOS business and diversifying its operations beyond mobile phones into sectors like automotive, IoT, and PCs [1] Group 1 - Apple has successfully integrated its self-developed baseband chips into its latest iPhone models, marking a strategic shift away from Qualcomm [1] - Qualcomm acknowledges the impact of Apple's self-developed chips on its business, stating that its future plans post-2027 do not include any business with Apple [1] - The baseband chip technology is characterized by high technical barriers, with only a few manufacturers globally, including Qualcomm, MediaTek, Samsung, Unisoc, and Intel, with Qualcomm being the dominant player [2]

Core Insights - The iPhone 17 Pro will retain a physical SIM card slot, indicating Apple's commitment to traditional SIM technology alongside eSIM options [1] - The iPhone 17 Air is set to replace the Plus model, featuring a thickness of approximately 5.5mm, making it Apple's thinnest device to date [3] - The iPhone 17 Air will have a battery capacity of less than 3000mAh, and it will be equipped with Apple's self-developed C1 baseband chip, which is more power-efficient but does not support 5G millimeter wave [3] Group 1 - The iPhone 17 series, except for the Air model, will continue to support traditional SIM cards [1] - The production line for the iPhone 17 Air began assembly in July, indicating a likely launch of the eSIM-enabled Chinese version [1] - The iPhone 17 Air is expected to be officially unveiled in September [3] Group 2 - eSIM technology allows for integration directly on the device's motherboard, providing a more flexible and convenient network connection experience [3] - The iPhone 17 Air's design prioritizes thinness, which has resulted in a reduced battery capacity [3] - The C1 baseband chip is designed to enhance battery life, although it lacks support for certain advanced 5G features [3]