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Huawei introduced satellite connectivity on a mainstream smartphone on September 6 of last year, followed by Apple’s introduction of this technology with the iPhone 14 series on September 8. Satellite connectivity allows phones to connect to low-orbit satellites and send SOS signals even in areas with no cellular reception.

Google has made satellite communication compatible with Android 14, and there are rumors that Oppo, Vivo, and Xiaomi devices will also introduce this feature with the help of Qualcomm. This indicates that satellite communication on mobile phones could be the next big thing.

Satellite connectivity on modern mobile devices involves integrating satellite technology into smartphones without the need for conspicuous antennas. However, currently, smartphones can only transmit text messages via satellite and not voice communications. Additionally, smartphones need to meet specific hardware requirements to support this feature.

This feature can be beneficial in situations where there is no terrestrial network available. For example, if you find yourself in a remote area without cell towers and encounter a dire situation, satellite communication on your phone can provide a connection to contact others. Instances of satellite SOS technology saving lives have been reported, such as a family escaping the Hawaii wildfires.

Smartphone satellite connectivity requires tight integration of hardware and software. Apple, in partnership with Globalstar, developed a compression algorithm to transmit text messages via satellite by reducing their size. Huawei’s Mate 50 series can transmit brief texts and use navigation through China’s BeiDou satellite network, but can’t receive messages.

In the future, more Android manufacturers may implement satellite communication in their flagship smartphones. Qualcomm, in collaboration with Iridium, introduced Snapdragon Satellite technology that enables two-way text messaging and access to messaging applications using satellites in emergency situations. Google is also planning to introduce satellite connectivity to its Messages app.

T-Mobile has partnered with SpaceX to offer smartphone satellite connectivity via Starlink satellites, and MediaTek has debuted chipsets facilitating two-way satellite communication on smartphones. There have also been rumors about satellite connectivity on future Samsung flagships.

Satellite communication on mobile devices has the potential to have a major impact on our lives, especially in life-threatening situations. It transforms satellite communication from a luxury to a potential lifesaver.

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