Apple’s next-gen iPhone might be able to forego having to be connected to either a 4G or 5G network, and could feature low earth orbit (LEO) satellite communication technology to make calls and send messages, according to noted analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.
In a recent note to investors, Kuo explained that the iPhone 13 lineup will feature hardware that is able to connect to LEO satellites. If enabled with the relevant software features, this could allow iPhone 13 users to make calls and send messages without the need for a 4G or 5G cellular connection.
The handset reportedly features a customized Qualcomm X60 baseband chip that also supports satellite communications. Other smartphone brands are apparently currently waiting until 2022 to adopt the X65 baseband chip necessary to implement satellite communications functions.
The chip could communicate with devices run as part of SpaceX’s Starlink portfolio. The company acts as an LEO satellite communications provider, although the LEO satellite communication service provider that is “most likely to cooperate with Apple in terms of technology and service coverage” is said to be Globalstar. Qualcomm has purportedly been working with Globalstar to support the n53 band in future X65 baseband chips.
Kuo stated that the “simplest scenario” for offering LEO connectivity is if individual network operators work with Globalstar. This would mean that customers of a partner network operator could collaborate with Globalstar’s satellite communication service on the iPhone 13 directly through their network operator with no additional contracts or payments required.
Kuo added that LEO satellite communications is a technology comparable to mmWave 5G and that Apple could leverage both technologies for its handset. The analyst stated that Apple is “optimistic” about satellite communications and set up a specific research and development team to explore technologies related to it “some time” ago.
Apple is though to have plans to bring LEO satellite communications to more devices in the future to “provide innovative experiences.” These may include Apple’s mixed reality head-mounted display device, electric vehicle, and other IoT accessories, according to Kuo.
Stay tuned for additional details as they become available.
Via MacRumors