All four models of the iPhone 12 are expected to support 5G technology, the headline new feature of autumn 2020. But only some of them will support millimetre wave, the super-fast version of 5G that has a much shorter range – more like Wi-Fi than regular mobile networks – but the highest speeds.
According to a new investor report, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo expects only a relatively small number of iPhones to be manufactured with millimetre wave: between 4 and 6 million this year, reports 9to5Mac. There will be 25-50 million made in 2021, he adds.
This is partly due to the fact that millimetre wave has such poor distribution, and the launch of 5G networks has been slowed down by the ongoing pandemic.
In recent years, Apple has manufactured fewer and fewer different versions of iPhone for different markets, as modems have been released that cover more and more 4G frequency. With the introduction of 5G, there may be a return to more models for different markets.
As well as offering faster speed and shorter range, millimetre wave 5G is more expensive to manufacture. It’s been reported that it will add $125 to the cost of each unit, compared to $75 for the sub-6GHz version.
The iPhone 12 is expected to launch in October 2020. Catch up on the latest leaks and rumours in our iPhone 12 news hub. If you can’t wait until next month, read our guide to the best iPhone deals for the latest bargains.
This article originally appeared on Macworld Sweden. Translation by David Price.
