Apple builds new office to focus on wireless chip production

Apple is creating a new office that will focus on wireless chip production as it works to bring more chip development in-house, according to Bloomberg.

Apple is hiring dozens of engineers for an office in Southern California to develop components that could eventually replace components it currently buys from companies like Broadcom, Skyworks and Qualcomm. The office is in Irvine, California, near Los Angeles and home to major chipmakers.

According to the job listing, Apple is looking for employees with expertise in modem chips and wireless semiconductors. At the factory, employees will work on radios, RF integrated semiconductors, and semiconductors that connect Bluetooth and WiFi.

Apple signed a three-and-a-half-year agreement with Broadcom in 2020, which means the agreement will expire in 2023. Under the terms of the agreement, Broadcom provides Apple with "a range of specified high-performance wireless components and modules."

After the contract expires, Apple will no longer have to use Broadcom's components and can rely on its own components. Apple has been working to bring more chip production in-house to reduce its reliance on third-party suppliers.