With the launch of the iPhone 14, Apple boasted one of the new features in the form of emergency satellite communication, which is supposed to allow contact in life-threatening emergencies even when there is no connection to the cellular network. Qualcomm is working on a similar solution, which will not be limited to iOS only, and firm boasted about the results of its work at CES 2023.
A solution called Qualcomm Satellite is to be available on Android phones. Qualcomm boasted of establishing cooperation with Iridium, which supports 66 satellite units operating around the Earth. It is a competitor to Globalstar, whose services are currently used by Apple. Satellite communication provided by Qualcomm is to allow sending and receiving calls, text messages, and ultimately also to support other messengers. During the conference, it was emphasized that the solution will enable communication with satellites not only in emergency situations, but also during recreation. Snapdragon Satellite is to be a feature that will go to selected smartphones in the second half of 2023. Support will include smartphones with Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 or later processors.