Apple’s upcoming A18 chip is anticipated to replicate the design of the M4 MacBook chips and utilize Arm’s V9 architecture.
Apple’s Glowtime launch event is fast approaching, and it’s expected to unveil the iPhone 16 series. Recent rumors indicate that Apple will use SoftBank-owned Arm’s latest V9 chip design in its next-generation smartphones, the same architecture set to power the upcoming M4 MacBook chips, enabling a range of AI-powered features.
Apple is set to unveil the A18 chip, built on Arm’s latest design architecture, at Monday’s event, according to sources cited by the Financial Times. Arm’s architecture, which defines the fundamental operations of a central processor, is a core component in nearly every smartphone chip.
In September, Apple secured a long-term deal with Arm extending through 2040 and beyond, ensuring continued access to Arm’s architecture, which is integral to its iPhone and Mac chips. This multi-year licensing agreement is also a significant win for Arm. CEO Rene Haas noted that the V9 chip architecture, introduced in 2021, generates double the royalties compared to its predecessor, the V8, which powers Apple’s A17 Pro chip in the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max.
A New Advancement for Apple Intelligence
This represents the latest move in Apple’s efforts to introduce generative AI features under the Apple Intelligence branding for its smartphones. While a full Apple Intelligence release is anticipated in 2025, many features are already being tested in developer betas for iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and macOS Sequoia 15.1, giving us a preview of what’s to come.
Apple Intelligence, similar to Microsoft Copilot in Windows, can automate tasks within the operating system and functions across devices running on M-series chips or A17 and newer chips on iPhones. Notable features include generating text and images, enhancing or rewriting text for better engagement or clarity, removing distracting objects from backgrounds, identifying users in photos, and upgrading Siri to better understand and respond to more natural language commands.
Running on-device AI models requires significant computing power, so for Apple to bring Apple Intelligence to pocket-sized devices like the iPhone, it will need cutting-edge, energy-efficient chip technology.
We’ll have to wait for Apple’s big showcase on Monday for more details. In the meantime, check out our guide on how to watch the Apple Glowtime event.