iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max Have Different Modems

Apple's latest iPhone models, the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, appear to have distinct modems within. According to Apple's technical specifications, the iPhone 18 Pro utilizes Apple's C2 modem, whereas the iPhone 18 Pro Max does not list a modem in the U.S. This discrepancy was observed on Apple's official announcement for the two models. Both devices share N1, an Apple-designed wireless networking chip enabling Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread.

The iPhone 18 Pro Proclaims C2, Apple's next-gen cellular modem system, offering AI-enhanced cellular quality and reliability. The absence of C2 mention for the Pro Max might initially appear as an error, but the separate model numbers reveal differing LTE bands. The U.S. Pro model lists Band 106, while the Pro Max list lacks this band.

It remains unclear why Apple would employ different modems for these two devices, although pre-launch rumors suggested some units might continue using Qualcomm modems. Apple has also integrated the C2 modem into the iPhone Duo, so supply issues could be a possible explanation.

The C2 modem supports both sub-6GHz and mmWave 5G, and Apple asserts it provides AI improvements to cellular quality and reliability. It is faster and more energy-efficient than the previous C1X modem, but its performance compared to Qualcomm's modem in the Pro Max remains uncertain. The iPhone 18 Pro models will become available for purchase on September 18, with preorders commencing on September 12. Pricing for the iPhone 18 Pro starts at $1,199, while the iPhone 18 Pro Max begins at $1,299.