Qualcomm still modem supplier for 'iPhone 6s,' but could cede some orders to Intel in 2017, rumor says

Qualcomm is partnering with TSMC to build modems for this year's iPhones, using the latter's 20-nanometer process, sources claimed to DigiTimes. The people argued that Intel is unlikely to win any orders for 2015 or 2016, but that it could become a supplier for 2017 iPhones as Apple is looking for additional modem providers.

The report comes in response to a memo by Northland Capital Markets analyst Gus Richard, who recently said that Intel may have won as much as half of the modem orders for next-generation iPhones. Apple has been considering an Intel modem "for a while," Richard added.

DigiTimes has a mixed track record when it comes to Apple hardware, but could have some insight as it's primarily focused on the supply sector.

Apple is expected to ship at least two new iPhones next month, leading with devices known as the iPhone 6s and 6s Plus. Apple might also ship an "iPhone 6c," which if it exists might sport the specifications of the iPhone 6 in a device the size of the iPhone 5s. Regardless, a press event is rumored for Sept. 9, followed by a launch on Sept. 18.