Apple is in advanced takeover talks with Intel for modem division

Apple is said to be in talks with Intel to acquire its modem division. Talks are said to be well advanced, and the deal is said to be worth about $1 billion.

The talks have been going on since the summer of last year, sources told The Wall Street Journal. However, the talks have briefly stopped since that time when Intel stopped developing 5G equipment. Intel spent years developing its own 5G modem, with the prospect of Apple becoming its main customer. Apple was involved in a legal battle with Qualcomm at the time. Apple accused the chipmaker of charging excessive royalties for licenses.

Apple and Qualcomm have now settled the case. Intel then decided that it would no longer be worth developing 5G modems itself. The company has already put patents up for sale, but there have been rumors for some time that Apple was interested in an acquisition. The purchase is probably mainly about acquiring designers and other talent, and about patents. However, many details about the talks are not known.