Satellite Connectivity: Satellite connectivity in smartphones is very much discussed these days. It started with iPhone 14, when Apple introduced this feature in 2022. After this, many companies started adopting it. But what is this technique and how does it work?
This satellite connectivity feature is mainly designed for conditions when mobile networks are not available. This allows users to contact emergency services through SOS messages. However, at present, this feature is limited to only a few smartphones and select areas. Google and Samsung have also adopted it, but it is still considered a special facility.
What is Satellite Connectivity and how does it work?
First of all it is important to understand that there is a difference between satellite connectivity and satellite phones. Setphones are completely dependent on satellite networks and are designed for use in extremely inaccessible areas. These are phones used in big, expensive and special circumstances. BSNL provides some setphone services in India. Smartphones mainly work on cellular networks. But with the help of satellite connectivity, the normal smartphone can also act like a setphone in an emergency.
At the moment, this technology is limited to SOS messaging, but two-way messaging and internet data transmission can also be possible in future. When it is fully developed, smartphones will not need to depend on ground-based towers. They will be able to transfer data directly by connecting to Low Earth Orbit (Leo) satellites.
Satellite connectivity in India: Airtel and Jio Preparation
In India, Airtel and Jio are working towards bringing this technology: Airtel has partnered with Onweeb. Jio has started work on satellite services with SES. However, the launch of this technology is delayed due to controversy over satellite spectrum allocation. Companies like Starlink want it to be implemented soon through administrative allocation. Airtel and Jio are in favor of distribution of this spectrum through the auction process, so that competition will remain.
Satellite texting starts in America
In the US, T-Mobile has launched satellite texting service in association with Elon Musk’s Starlink. However, this service will not be free. It will be free in T-mobile expensive GO5G Next Plan. Other users will have to pay $ 15 (about Rs 1,250) every month for this. Customers of AT & T and Verizon will get this service in $ 20 (about Rs 1,650) per month. Apple’s GlobalStar Satellite Network is available in many countries, while T-mobile service is currently limited to America only.
Which smartphones will get satellite connectivity in India?
Along with telecom companies in India, smartphone brands are also working on this technology. This facility is provided through the GlobalStar Satellite Network in Apple iPhone 14 and subsequent models. The SAMSUNG Exynos 5400 modem with the SAMSUNG EXYNOS 5400 modem has been added to the Google Pixel 9 series.
The Samsung Galaxy S24 series has Exynos 5400 modem, but it currently does not support satellite connectivity. The Galaxy S25 series has Qualcomm Snapdragon X80 5G modem, which can activate this feature. According to reports, Samsung may soon enable the satellite SOS feature in its devices.
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