Apple‘s recent decision to introduce its latest chip, the A17 Pro, exclusively in the professional iPhone generation caused quite a stir last year. Now, in 2023, Apple has unveiled the A17 Pro chip, with the “Pro” moniker instead of “Bionic.” This leads to speculation that Apple might continue this strategy by incorporating a Pro processor in the base models of the iPhone 16. Fortunately, analyst Jeff Pu has provided some insights into this matter.
With Apple’s ongoing approach of distinguishing between iPhone generations, it continues to introduce processors from different generations across its lineup. This strategy aims to create more noticeable differentiation between iPhone segments, despite receiving criticism. Apple remains committed to this roadmap, as evident with its plans for the iPhone 16.
According to Jeff Pu, based on information from the investment firm Haitong International Securities and reported by MacRumors, “we will see the A17 Pro as a transitional design, and now we expect that all iPhone 16 models will feature the A18 chip built on TSMC’s N3E process.” Specifically, his report outlines the following chip configurations:
- iPhone 16: A18 (N3E) chip
- iPhone 16 Plus: A18 (N3E) chip
- iPhone 16 Pro: A18 Pro (N3E) chip
- iPhone 16 Pro Max: A18 Pro (N3E) chip
What does this mean? It suggests that Apple will adopt a straightforward strategy for iPhones, similar to what it did with the first and second generations of Apple Silicon. This involves having a standard or base generation and, under the same architecture, launching a Pro version, tailored for the iPhone 16 Pro.
In essence, the iPhone 16 will not feature the A17 Pro chip but will instead come equipped with the 3nm A18 chip manufactured by TSMC. This implies significant performance improvements between generations. Apple’s approach involves developing two processors for its new iPhones, each with distinct features, which is preferable to users feeling like they have last year’s iPhone.
This development raises another important question: Will the iPhone 15 receive five years of support? The base series processors are making a significant leap, and it’s possible that previous models won’t support the new iOS features designed for more powerful processors.
In conclusion, the official names of the iPhone 16 processors may not be revealed until later in 2024, as the launch is still months away. However, it’s evident that Apple intends to follow a similar development approach to what it has done with Macs. The question that remains is when Apple will apply this strategy to the iPad.