With the iPhone 17 series, Apple is moving closer to full control of its hardware stack by debuting the N1 chip – its first self-designed Wi-Fi and Bluetooth processor.

The N1 powers Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread across the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, and the new iPhone Air.

The move marks Apple’s shift away from long-time supplier Broadcom, extending its push to bring more key technologies in-house after launching its first modem earlier this year.

Apple says the N1 chip delivers greater efficiency, reliability and battery life due to tighter integration with iOS and Apple hardware.

Everyday features like AirDrop and Personal Hotspot should see noticeable improvements, while continuity features such as using an iPad as a Mac display are expected to benefit as well.

Bluetooth 6 is a standout upgrade, offering lower latency, less interference in crowded environments, and enhanced multi-stream audio, which is a boost for spatial audio and hearing aid support.

For smart homes, built-in Thread connectivity means iPhone 17 devices can directly control Thread-enabled accessories without relying on a hub.

The change is not just about the iPhone.

Reports suggest Apple plans to roll out the N1 to Apple TV, HomePod, iPad, and Mac, with Bloomberg noting the chip forms a foundation for Apple’s broader smart home and spatial computing ambitions.

Alongside the N1, Apple has also introduced Spatial Relay Audio-Visual Sync (SPR AVS), a new ultra-low-latency wireless protocol designed to deliver lossless, delay-free audio across iPhones, AirPods and other Apple devices.

Analysts see it as Apple’s answer to Bluetooth LE Audio and Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Sound, potentially paving the way for future AirPods and AirPlay speakers that bypass Bluetooth entirely.