Apple’s iPhone 16 series, set to be unveiled on Monday during the “Glowtime” event, will feature a next-generation chip built on Arm’s latest architecture, according to the Financial Times. This new chip, dubbed the A18, is based on Arm’s V9 design and is designed to significantly enhance the iPhone’s AI capabilities.
Apple’s commitment to incorporating advanced AI features into its smartphones is evident in its continuous efforts to integrate cutting-edge technologies. This move follows Apple’s recent adoption of Arm’s V9 architecture for its M4 MacBook chips, which were unveiled in May. The company’s CEO, Tim Cook, has also emphasized Apple’s shift towards AI-centricity, highlighting its “breakthrough” AI platform during the third-quarter earnings call.
The A18 chip, built on Arm’s V9 design, promises to deliver double the royalties compared to its predecessor, the V8. Arm’s chip architecture provides the foundation for the chip’s instructions, with the company generating revenue through licensing and royalties.
The increased demand for computational power to run AI models on compact devices like smartphones necessitates advancements in chip technology. Apple’s reliance on Arm’s latest chip technology, specifically the V9 architecture, is a strategic move to address this need and further enhance its AI capabilities.
Arm, a SoftBank-owned company, reported impressive financial results in the first quarter, exceeding analyst expectations for both earnings and sales. This growth was driven by record license revenue and significant growth in royalty revenue.
Apple’s iPhone 16 series, powered by the A18 chip, is expected to be a significant milestone in the company’s AI journey. The new chip, based on Arm’s V9 architecture, will enable advanced AI features, positioning Apple at the forefront of AI-driven mobile experiences.
