Apple highlighted its new N1 chip as one of the biggest upgrades inside the iPhone 17 lineup. This is Apple’s first custom wireless chip, replacing Broadcom’s solution, and it powers Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread for smart home devices.
The company promised better efficiency, improved background location services, and more reliable features like AirDrop and Personal Hotspot.
However, just days after launch, some iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone Air owners are already running into problems.
Wi-Fi Keeps Dropping
Users Reddit, and the Apple Support Community are reporting that Wi-Fi connectivity occasionally cuts out.
The issue usually shows up right after unlocking the phone, where Wi-Fi briefly disconnects and then reconnects. Since Apple’s CarPlay relies on Wi-Fi, the problem also causes CarPlay to disconnect, which is especially frustrating while driving.
Several users noticed that the issue seems more frequent when wearing an unlocked Apple Watch that is paired with the iPhone, but it is not clear if that is directly related.
What exactly causes it: Apple Watch on wrist + unlocked= iPhone not happy.
If Apple Watch on wrist and locked= iPhone happy.
If Apple Watch off wrist and unlocked= iPhone happy.
Problem: “unlock with iPhone” will unlock Apple Watch, then iPhone isn’t happy anymore.
Is the N1 Chip to Blame?
Every iPhone 17 model uses Apple’s N1 chip. This move gives Apple more control over wireless performance and power efficiency, but it also introduces new challenges. The chip is supposed to make wireless connections faster and more stable, yet some owners are experiencing the opposite.
Worth checking out: iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone Air Already Facing a “Scratchgate” Moment
It is still uncertain whether the problem comes from hardware or from early software bugs. Apple often resolves these types of issues through iOS updates, and many are now hoping iOS 26.0.1 will address it.
Related: Apple Quietly Releases New iOS 26 Build Just for iPhone 17 Pro Models
The Takeaway
The N1 chip is an exciting step forward for Apple and could eventually make wireless connectivity more seamless across iPhones and other devices. For now, though, early adopters are dealing with dropped Wi-Fi connections and waiting to see if a software fix is on the way.
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