The lack of mmWave support on the iPhone SE 4 may affect gaming performance, but perhaps not significantly for most users[4]. Here's how:
* Slower speeds: The iPhone SE 4 will likely have slower upload and download speeds compared to iPhones with Qualcomm's Snapdragon X75 modems because it lacks a millimeter wave (mmWave) component, which is responsible for offering high-speed 5G connectivity[3]. While the iPhone SE 4 supports sub-6 GHz 5G, it does not support any mmWave bands[4].
* Gaming and Streaming: mmWave is particularly useful for streaming and gaming due to its high throughput and lower latency[1]. For example, the Razer Edge, an Android handheld gaming tablet, can stream games remotely via 5G[1]. The absence of mmWave could limit the iPhone SE 4's ability to take full advantage of high-definition streaming and gaming on the go[4].
* Real-world impact: The absence of mmWave support may not be a major drawback for many users[4]. To use mmWave, one has to be close to a 5G tower without obstructions[4]. mmWave antennas are more practical in dense locations like airports and stadiums than in rural areas[4].
* Alternative perspective: Some reports suggest that on typical sub-6 networks, real-world download rates may be closer than lab specs suggest, even without mmWave[6]. Apple's tight integration of its new A18 chip may compensate for the modem's less advanced manufacturing, delivering decent battery life in sub-6 usage[6].
[1] https://www.ookla.com/articles/mmwave-spectrum-gigabit-speeds-us-q1-2023
[2] https://www.imda.gov.sg/resources/blog/blog-articles/2022/12/levelling-up-the-game-play-experience-with-the-first-5g-mmwave-cloud-gaming-trial-in-singapore
[3] https://beebom.com/iphone-se-4-reported-slower-data-transfer-speeds-why/
[4] https://www.zdnet.com/article/new-iphone-se-doesnt-support-5g-mmwave-bands-and-thats-okay/
[5] https://www.fibocom.com/en/blog/what-the-benefit-of-5g-mmwave-technology.html?id=6931
[6] https://www.rdworldonline.com/iphone-se-4-launch-hints-at-apples-long-game-in-5g-modems-challenging-qualcomms-reign/
[7] https://www.gearbrain.com/iphone-12-and-mmwave-5g-2647448242.html
[8] https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2020/08/5g-01-gaming/
[9] https://www.idropnews.com/news/the-iphone-se-doesnt-support-mmwave-5g-does-it-really-matter/182343/
[10] https://www.reddit.com/r/tmobile/comments/t9oup5/the_new_iphone_se_does_not_support_mmwave_5g_due/
[11] https://www.gsmarena.com/iphone_se_4s_modem_to_lack_mmwave_support-news-66580.php