Only a few more days are left before September, when Apple will unveil its new iPhone 13 line. Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple analyst, has shown us a glimpse of what to expect. Texting and calling are possible even without 4G or 5G coverage.
Advertisement
Kuo, an Apple feature expert and long-standing source, stated in an investor note that the iPhone 13 will reportedly be equipped with hardware that connects to low-earth orbit satellites. According to the outlet, it is a Qualcomm X60 baseband processor that supports satellite communications. It will need to be enabled using specific software features.
LEO satellites, if you remember, are the same satellites SpaceX uses for its Starlink internet service. SpaceX is not likely to partner with Apple for its satellite communications connectivity, despite this fact.
Kuos Investor Note states that Globalstar will be the company's partner. This is a natural partnership considering both companies are Qualcomm. Qualcomm integrated Globalstars Band technology from Globalstars into its 5G X65 modem in February.
Kuo stated that it was the easiest way for iPhone 13 users of satellite communications to use the phone's connectivity. He suggested that network operators should work directly with Globalstar. This would theoretically save customers the cost of paying extra for or contracting Globalstar elsewhere.
Kuo stated that working with network operators was the best scenario. However, it is not clear if this plan will work out or if satellite communication connectivity will be offered as a free service. It is also unclear if this will mean that iPhone users won't be able use Apple services such as FaceTime and iMessage when they are out of range for 5G or 4G.
Kuo suggests that we might see satellite communication connectivity in Apple's products again. Apple plans to include this feature on a number of devices. This could include the mixed reality headset, electric vehicle, and other Internet of Things accessories.
