According to a new report, the iPhone 13 could make voice calls and data transmission using a satellite connection.
According to a report by Ming-Chi Kuo, the iPhone 13 would support satellite communication to make calls and send messages when there is no cellular coverage. The analyst has a very good reputation for previewing Apple news, thanks to its sources in Asian production lines.
The iPhone 13 would connect with satellites in low orbit that offer call and data connection services. The first time it was known that Apple was investigating the technology was in 2019 through a report by Mark Gurman in Blomberg.
According to Kuo, they would achieve this using a modified version of the Qualcomm X60 chip to support connections with satellites in low orbit. It is not clear if Apple would offer the service for free, limited to its services, or an extra subscription provided by the company itself or through third parties.
Similar technology to SpaceX’s Starlink, but with significant differences in the case of the iPhone 13
The technology used for data connections or voice with LEO satellites is similar to that used by Starlink of SpaceX, but with significant differences to operate from such a small device as the iPhone 13. If the rumor comes true, Apple will use the operator Globalstar since Qualcomm has worked with the company so that its X65 chips support communication with the supplier.
According to Kuo, the impact on the industry of using satellite communications on smartphones like the iPhone 13 would be great. “Similar to what happened with mmWave 5G,” he explained in his report. According to the analyst, Apple has created an internal team to research and develop related technologies.
In the future, supposedly, the company would incorporate voice and data communication with satellites in low orbit to more devices to offer innovative experiences. This would include the augmented reality glasses that Apple has reportedly been working on for years.