Huawei, not Apple, was the first to introduce satellite connectivity to mainstream smartphones on Sept. 6 last year. A day later, on September 7, the Cupertino-based company also showcased the new technology with the iPhone 14 series. Satellite connectivity allows the phone to connect to low-orbiting satellites and send SOS messages, even without cellular reception.
The life-saving satellite communication feature will soon be available on more phones. Google has already made it compatible with Android 14, and rumor has it that Oppo, Vivo, and Xiaomi will bring it to their devices via Qualcomm. Clearly, satellite communications on cell phones could be the next big thing. So it's important to understand what it is and how it works.
What is Satellite connectivity on modern phones?
If you're similar to us, chances are you've come across those vintage satellite phones equipped with lengthy antennas protruding from their tops. Unlike conventional cell phones, satellite phones establish connections with other phones or the telephone network using radio links through Earth-orbiting satellites instead of relying on terrestrial cell sites. This unique feature empowers them to provide reliable communication even in the most remote areas.
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| What is a satellite connection on a smartphone? |
Due to practical limitations, having a satellite phone conveniently stored in our pockets is not feasible for the majority of individuals. As a result, manufacturers are striving to incorporate satellite technology into modern smartphones, without the need for visible antennas. Nonetheless, the current state of technology restricts satellite functionality to text messaging capabilities, excluding the ability to make phone calls. Additionally, integrating this feature into smartphones necessitates specific hardware prerequisites. As highlighted by Mishaal Rahmaan, the availability of this feature relies on the modem hardware present in the particular device being used.
If you're curious about the practical applications of this feature, let's consider an example: Picture yourself embarking on an adventurous journey to a remote and secluded destination. Upon arrival, you discover that you are far beyond the coverage range of cellular towers. Unfortunately, an unforeseen emergency arises, leaving you unable to reach out to anyone for assistance. In such a scenario, having satellite communication capabilities on your phone can be a lifesaver, as it allows you to establish a connection even in the absence of a terrestrial network. There have been numerous documented cases where satellite SOS technology has played a crucial role in saving lives, with a recent example being a family who utilized this feature to escape the wildfires in Hawaii.
How does Satellite connectivity work on smartphones?
For seamless satellite connectivity, smartphone manufacturers must closely integrate hardware and software. In the case of Apple's iPhone 14 and 14 Pro models, they have achieved this by deeply integrating hardware components with software, enabling antennas to establish direct connections with satellites.
Apple has formed a partnership with Globalstar, a satellite communications company that operates a fleet of 48 low-orbit satellites. To facilitate the transmission of emergency messages via satellite, Apple has developed a unique compression algorithm that significantly reduces the size of text messages to one-third of their original size. The emergency message is then received by one of Globalstar's satellites in low-earth orbit, which travels at a remarkable speed of approximately 16,000 mph. Subsequently, the satellite relays the message to ground stations strategically positioned at key locations worldwide.
The Huawei Mate 50 and Mate 50 Pro smartphones leverage China's expansive BeiDou satellite network, enabling them to send short text messages and utilize navigation features. However, based on Huawei's description, it appears that the current implementation only allows for outbound text messaging via satellite, without the capability to receive messages in return.
It's worth noting that future iterations of these phones might adopt a different approach to satellite technology integration. There is the potential for upcoming models to introduce voice and data connectivity, expanding the range of satellite capabilities offered by Huawei smartphones.
What lies in the future?
Numerous Android smartphone brands are poised to introduce satellite communication capabilities with their upcoming flagship models. During the Mobile World Congress (MWC), Qualcomm announced collaborations with notable phone manufacturers such as Xiaomi, Oppo, Vivo, Motorola, Nothing, and Honor, who are prepared to integrate satellite communication into their devices. However, specific details regarding these implementations are currently unavailable.
During the recent Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Qualcomm introduced its Snapdragon Satellite technology in collaboration with satellite service provider Iridium. This innovative technology empowers Android smartphones to send and receive two-way text messages and utilize messaging apps through satellite connectivity, particularly in emergency situations. This functionality is similar to what has been observed in iPhones, offering Android users enhanced communication capabilities even when traditional networks are unavailable.
Moreover, recent reports indicate that Google is also working towards incorporating satellite connectivity into its Messages app. The company appears to be adding the necessary user interface (UI) elements to initiate emergency SOS messages via satellite within the app. This development aligns with Google's earlier announcement that Android 14 will support satellite connectivity.
T-Mobile has also announced its partnership with SpaceX to deliver satellite connectivity on smartphones using Starlink satellites. In February 2023, MediaTek joined the satellite communication race by unveiling two chipsets that enable two-way satellite communication on smartphones. Additionally, there have been persistent rumors since last year about potential satellite connectivity features on upcoming Samsung flagship devices.
Satellite connectivity on phones is the next big thing
Undoubtedly, the integration of satellite communication on smartphones holds immense potential to revolutionize our lives. The prospect of uninterrupted and extensive connectivity has the power to be a game-changer, particularly in situations where lives are at stake. It is evident that satellite communication on smartphones goes beyond being a mere luxury; it has the potential to serve as a life-saving tool.