Apple iPhone 16 Series 5G Configuration Faces Criticism Again: mmWave Exclusive to US Models, Other Regions Left Behind

Apple iPhone 16 Series 5G Configuration Faces Criticism Again: mmWave Exclusive to US Models, Other Regions Left BehindTech media outlet MacRumors recently published an article reporting that Apple's iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro series, released this year, maintain the "status quo" in terms of 5G. US models support mmWave 5G, while versions sold in other countries and regions only support sub-6GHz 5G

Apple iPhone 16 Series 5G Configuration Faces Criticism Again: mmWave Exclusive to US Models, Other Regions Left Behind

Tech media outlet MacRumors recently published an article reporting that Apple's iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro series, released this year, maintain the "status quo" in terms of 5G. US models support mmWave 5G, while versions sold in other countries and regions only support sub-6GHz 5G.

This news has once again sparked questions about Apple's 5G strategy. Since the launch of the iPhone 12 series in 2020, US iPhones have enjoyed exclusive access to mmWave 5G, leaving users in other countries and regions feeling left behind.

While mmWave technology offers the fastest 5G speeds, its short transmission range and inability to penetrate obstacles limit its use primarily to urban areas. In contrast, Sub-6GHz 5G has much wider coverage, encompassing rural and suburban areas.

It's worth noting that US iPhone 16 models have replaced the mmWave antenna with a camera control button, removing the noticeable mmWave cutout and integrating the antenna into the iPhone frame. This change could be Apple's attempt to retain mmWave 5G functionality while enhancing the overall design aesthetic of US models.

However, this strategy has sparked dissatisfaction among users in other countries and regions. Many believe that Apple should offer the same 5G functionality globally instead of limiting mmWave 5G technology to US models. They argue that this practice is discriminatory and hinders the widespread adoption and development of 5G technology.

Some experts have also raised concerns about Apple's 5G strategy. They emphasize the importance of prioritizing global market needs rather than solely focusing on the US market. They recommend offering consistent 5G functionality worldwide and optimizing it according to regional specificities.

Furthermore, some analysts suggest that Apple's differentiated 5G approach may be linked to the intense competition in the US market. To maintain a competitive edge, Apple needs to enhance the performance of US iPhones as much as possible, and mmWave 5G technology is a crucial tool for achieving this.

However, this differentiation strategy could negatively impact Apple's global brand image. Users may perceive a lack of fair competition in global markets, leading to doubts about brand loyalty.

In conclusion, Apple's differentiated 5G strategy has sparked debate. While US iPhones benefit from exclusive mmWave 5G technology, offering faster speeds, it restricts other regions from enjoying the full benefits of 5G. It remains to be seen whether Apple will change its 5G strategy and offer equal treatment to users worldwide in the future.