When should I start applying for jobs?

Hey guys, just need some general advice. Here's my story:

I'm currently a junior at a non-target, graduating a little early in December 2025. I currently have an internship lined up for this summer at an AM firm with an AUM north of $600B, although the role is more client facing than technical. 

I'm currently wondering if I should begin applying to jobs as early as right now, as I've heard that the firm doesn't often hire summer interns, and the role, unless I can lateral into "true" AM, isn't as technical as I'd like it to be. I've networked with hundreds of people to land this role so I think I have a fair shot of landing something elsewhere, but who knows given the current economy. 

My only other plan would be to line up another internship at a better firm for fall 2025 (I can delay graduation to the spring) and hope I get an offer post-grad there, though I know that there are few off-cycle internships available.

I would really appreciate some advice. Thanks!