It may be necessary to temper your expectations about the rumored satellite communications for the next iPhone. 9to5Mac reports that Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, who is claiming in his newsletter "Power On", claims that the emergency satellite calls and messages for the next iPhone (potentially called iPhone 13), will only work in select markets and not in areas without cellular coverage. It won't be used as a backup if cell service is poor in your area.
Gurman stated that Apple wants to launch its satellites to increase data coverage. However, any plans for that are still years away. Also, you won't be able to make non-emergency phone calls anytime soon.
These limitations are not surprising. Rumours suggest that the new iPhone will use a modified Qualcomm modem for satellite service. However, it may not be ready to serve a full-featured satellite telephone. Gurman said that Apple might not be able to offer a satellite phone that bypasses traditional networks due to carrier objections and costs.
There are reasons to be cautious about your expectations for Apple's next event. Gurman says that display issues could make it difficult for Apple Watch Series 7 to be made available. The wristwear will be released alongside the next iPhone. However, certain versions may not be available in large quantities or late. It may take some time for your preferred case and band combination to be shipped. Although this isn’t as bad than the delays that caused the iPhone 12 to be delayed last year, it can still be far from smooth launches like the pre-pandemic era.
