Android smartphones with Qualcomm modems outperform iPhone 16e in 5G tests
According to a new report by Cellular Insights, commissioned by Qualcomm, two Android smartphones with Snapdragon X75 and X80 modems showed better 5G speeds than the iPhone 16e equipped with Apple's own C1 modem.
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The testing was conducted in New York on T-Mobile's sub-6GHz network in various real-world conditions.
The report notes that Android smartphones consistently outperformed the iPhone 16e in terms of connection quality, especially indoors. Download speeds were 35% faster and upload speeds were 91% faster. The iPhone 16e sometimes got warm during the tests, but it was not determined whether this affected performance.
The Android smartphones that took part in the test cost $619 and $799, while the iPhone 16e starts at $599.
The Cellular Insights findings state that devices with Qualcomm modems have a "distinct advantage" for those looking for a stable and fast 5G connection. Qualcomm is already disseminating these results through a press release.
Apple emphasises that the C1 is the most power-efficient iPhone modem available, giving the 16e the best battery life of any 6.1-inch model. The company hopes to improve on this with the upcoming C2 and C3 modems.
The C1 has been extensively tested in environmental chambers, subjected to extreme temperatures to confirm its endurance in harsh environments. Additionally, physical tests ensure the chip's resistance to daily wear and tear, while network tests simulate high data traffic scenarios such as packed stadiums or remote rural areas.
Apple has tested the C1 with more than 180 carriers in 55 countries.
Source: Cellular Insights
