The highlight of these rumors is the iPad Pro’s potential integration of Apple’s own 5G modem, tentatively dubbed the C2 modem. Current cellular iPad Pro models, released in May 2024, rely on Qualcomm modems for connectivity. Apple’s first in-house modem, the C1, debuted in the iPhone 16e in February 2025, offering sub-6GHz 5G support. The C2 modem, expected to power the iPad Pro by 2027, promises to build on this foundation, potentially adding faster mmWave 5G capabilities. This upgrade could deliver blazing download speeds—up to 6 Gbps theoretically—making the iPad Pro a powerhouse for mobile productivity and entertainment.
Apple’s modem journey reflects a strategic push for independence. After acquiring Intel’s smartphone modem business in 2019, the company has steadily refined its cellular technology. The iPhone SE 4 and iPhone 17 Air, both slated for 2025, will also feature the C1 modem, serving as real-world testing grounds before broader adoption. For iPad Pro users, this shift could mean more seamless integration with Apple’s ecosystem, improved power efficiency, and eventually, connectivity that rivals or exceeds industry standards.
What’s Next for the iPad Pro?
Beyond the modem, the rumored iPad Pro will likely sport an M6 chip, succeeding the M5 expected in late 2025 models. Apple’s typical 18-month iPad Pro refresh cycle suggests a 2027 launch for the M6 version, aligning with Gurman’s timeline for the C2 modem debut. The M6 chip, built on advanced manufacturing processes, should boost performance for tasks like video editing and augmented reality, keeping the iPad Pro at the cutting edge for professionals and creatives.
The current iPad Pro, launched in May 2024, brought OLED displays, a slimmer design, and the M4 chip. While the M5 update later in 2025 will refine these features, the 2027 model with the M6 and C2 modem could redefine the tablet’s role in a 5G-driven world. Imagine downloading a 4K movie in seconds or collaborating on complex projects remotely with zero lag—practical benefits that resonate with AppleMagazine’s tech-savvy readers.
Other Devices in the Pipeline
Gurman also hinted at an entry-level iPad 12 with a newer chip—possibly the A17 or A18—to replace the A16 in the recently updated iPad 11. This budget-friendly option, expected around 2026, will likely stick with the C1 modem, ensuring affordable 5G access. Meanwhile, MacBook Air models with the M5 chip are also in development, though their timeline remains less certain. These updates signal Apple’s commitment to refreshing its entire lineup with cutting-edge silicon and connectivity.
Why It Matters
For tech enthusiasts and casual users alike, Apple’s in-house 5G modem is more than a spec bump—it’s a statement. By designing its own modems, Apple can optimize them for its devices, potentially improving battery life and network reliability. It’s a practical move, too: reducing dependency on Qualcomm could lower costs over time, savings that might trickle down to consumers. Plus, with 5G becoming ubiquitous, a modem tailored to Apple’s ecosystem could enhance everything from FaceTime calls to cloud gaming.
The shift isn’t without challenges. Apple’s first modem lacks mmWave support, a limitation that competitors like Qualcomm have long overcome. But the C2 modem’s rumored capabilities suggest Apple is playing the long game, aiming to leapfrog rivals by 2027. For now, the iPad Pro remains a testing ground for this vision, bridging today’s innovations with tomorrow’s possibilities.
Looking Ahead
As Apple continues to innovate, the iPad Pro with an in-house 5G modem stands out as a milestone. It’s not just about faster downloads—it’s about a future where Apple controls every layer of the user experience. For readers eager to stay ahead of the curve, this development is a compelling reason to keep an eye on Cupertino. Expect more details to emerge as 2027 approaches, but for now, the rumor mill is buzzing with promise.
