Apple announced the satellite communication feature through iPhone 14 phones last year, And now Qualcomm has announced Learn about Snapdragon Satellite technology, which will provide the same functionality on Android phones.
At CES recently, Qualcomm unveiled Snapdragon Satellite, a two-way satellite service that will be available on the “next generation of premium Android smartphones.”
The launch of the new technology takes place in collaboration with the American company Iridium, which manages 66 constellations of satellites in low orbit around the Earth.
Snapdragon Satellite technology won’t be limited to just emergencies
The new technology will support two-way messaging for emergency use, SMS text messaging, and “other messaging apps.”
In its press release, Qualcomm clearly states that it will not only be for emergencies, but also “for recreation in remote, rural and offshore locations.”
The new technology will be supported starting on devices equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset. Emergency messages are expected to be available on next-generation smartphones, which will be launched in selected regions starting in the second half of 2023.
Snapdragon Satellite can expand to other devices, such as laptops, tablets, cars, and IoT products.
OEMs and application developers can offer unique branded services that leverage satellite connectivity. The Snapdragon Satellite will support 5G non-terrestrial (NTN) networks as they become available.
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Garmin will also work with Qualcomm to “support emergency messaging.” “Garmin welcomes the opportunity to extend its proven satellite emergency response services to millions of new smartphone users around the world,” said Brad Trinkle, vice president, External Business at Garmin.
Garmin’s response supports thousands of SOS incidents each year and potentially saves many lives in the process. and we look forward to partnering with Qualcomm Technologies and Iridium to help people contact 911, no matter where life takes them.”
