According to Ming-Chi Kuo, a well-known and trusted Apple analyst, the iPhone 13 is expected to have LEO satellite communication technology to allow users to make calls and send messages in areas without 4G or 5G coverage.
In a note to investors, Kuo explained that the iPhone 13 line would contain LEO-compatible devices. If enabled with relevant features software, this could allow iPhone 13 users to make calls and send messages without needing a cellular connection.
The iPhone 13 is also rumored to have a custom Qualcomm X60 core chip that supports satellite communications. Other smartphone companies are waiting until 2022 to adopt the chip-in X65 baseband required to implement satellite communication functions.
SpaceX’s Starlink affiliate is a funder of LEO’s internet connectivity. Still, the LEO satellite service provider who “is more likely to partner with Apple in terms of technology and service coverage “is rumored to be Global Star. Qualcomm is reportedly working with Global Star to support the n53 band in future chips. In the X65 baseband, according to the MacRumors website.
The “simplest scenario” for providing LEO connectivity to users is if mobile operators work with Globalstar, Kue explained.
This means that customers of the partner network operator can use Global Star’s satellite communications service on iPhone 13 directly through their network operator without needing additional contracts or payments.
Kuo added that LEO satellite communications are comparable technology to mmWave 5G in terms of impact on the networking industry and that Apple could benefit from both technologies.
Kuo said Apple is “optimistic” about the direction of satellite communications and has set up specific team research and development on related technologies “for some time”.
The company is believed to have plans to bring LEO satellite communications to multiple devices in the Future to “provide innovative experiences”.
According to Kuo, this could include the display reality camera mounted on Apple’s head, it’s futuristic auto electrical, and other IoT accessories.
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