Apple iPhone Air Surpasses iPhone 16 Plus in Popularity; C1X Modem Nears Qualcomm Speeds

• March 23, 2026

iPhone Air Gains Traction as Apple’s C1X Modem Narrows Gap with Qualcomm

Apple’s iPhone Air has demonstrated significantly higher user adoption compared to its predecessor, the iPhone 16 Plus, within a comparable launch timeframe. According to data from Ookla, the iPhone Air achieved an approximate 6.8% usage share, effectively more than doubling the less than 3% recorded by the iPhone 16 Plus during a similar period last year.

This surge in popularity suggests a growing consumer preference for the iPhone Air’s positioning within Apple’s broader smartphone lineup. The model effectively replaces the iPhone 16 Plus and appears to resonate more strongly with users seeking a balance of features and performance.

In parallel with increased adoption, the iPhone Air is equipped with Apple’s latest C1X modem, which has shown marked improvements over its predecessor, the C1. This next-generation modem exhibits notably enhanced 5G download speeds, bringing the technology closer to parity with the Qualcomm solutions found in the higher-tier iPhone 17 Pro models.

The convergence in modem performance highlights Apple’s ongoing efforts to reduce reliance on third-party components and optimize its own communication technologies. The C1X modem’s advancements in speed contribute to better network performance for users, particularly in 5G environments where download throughput is critical.

While exact technical details and pricing information regarding the iPhone Air and its integrated components remain under wraps, the available data underscores a positive shift for Apple both in market reception and underlying technology integration.

Apple’s strategic emphasis on improving in-house modem design aligns with broader industry trends focused on enhancing connectivity while potentially lowering manufacturing dependencies.

Overall, the iPhone Air’s stronger adoption rate combined with the C1X modem’s competitive performance positions Apple favorably as it continues to innovate in the smartphone and wireless communication market segments.

The iPhone Air doubles the usage rate of the iPhone 16 Plus, while Apple’s C1X modem approaches Qualcomm speeds in 5G performance.