With Apple’s iPhone 14 models last fall, emergency satellite connectivity was available, and Android devices couldn’t be far behind. Qualcomm announced Snapdragon Satellite today at CES, a two-way satellite messaging service for premium Android smartphones.
As a result of a partnership with Iridium, which operates a 66-strong constellation of low-earth orbit satellites, this is possible. Apple’s partner for its service, Globalstar, is one of its main competitors.
The Snapdragon Satellite will support two-way messaging, SMS texting, and “other messaging applications”. According to Qualcomm, it will not only be used for emergencies, but also for “recreation in remote, rural, and offshore locations”.
Starting Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset-equipped devices, it will be supported. According to Qualcomm, Snapdragon Satellite will enable emergency messaging on next-generation smartphones in select regions starting in the second half of 2023.
It can also be used with other devices, such as laptops, tablets, cars, and IoT devices. With satellite connectivity, OEMs and app developers can offer unique branded services. With the advent of 5G Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs), Snapdragon Satellite will support them.
