Qualcomm just announced at CES 2023 a new satellite-based, two-way messaging solution, called "Snapdragon Satellite." This product will offer off-the-grid global coverage for emergency uses, similar to Apple's current satellite messaging solution.
Snapdragon Satellite will provide global messaging connectivity on Android smartphones carrying the flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 Mobile Platform. It is powered by Snapdragon 5G Modem-RF Systems and supported by the fully operational Iridium satellite constellation. This technology will let OEMs and other service providers offer truly global coverage.
The ability to send and receive urgent messages via Snapdragon Satellite is slated to become standard on next-generation smartphones, and will launch in select regions beginning in the second half of 2023. This also includes SMS texting and other messaging applications.
Durga Malladi, Senior VP and General Manager of Cellular Modems and Infrastructure at Qualcomm, was quoted as saying:
Robust and reliable connectivity is at the heart of premium experiences. Snapdragon Satellite showcases our history of leadership in enabling global satellite communications and our ability to bring superior innovations to mobile devices at scale. Kicking off in premium smartphones later this year, this new addition to our Snapdragon platform strongly positions us to enable satellite communication capabilities and service offerings across multiple device categories.
In addition to mobile phones, the Snapdragon Satellite platform is also adaptable to other devices such as laptops, tablets, vehicles, and the internet of things. As the Snapdragon Satellite ecosystem expands, OEMs and app developers will have the ability to differentiate their products and provide distinctive branded services that take advantage of satellite connectivity. It is anticipated that Snapdragon Satellite will support 5G Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) once the necessary infrastructure is put in place.
This announcement comes on the heels of Apple unveiling its Emergency SOS feature last year, which lets you text emergency services from an iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Pro when you’re not within cellular or Wi-Fi range. Qualcomm’s solution will allow Android devices to have the same capabilities.
It was not included in the announcement whether this service will be free, such as Apple’s will be for the first two years. However, as this isn’t expected until the second half of the year, we expect that more details and updates will follow as we get closer to the launch date.
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Johanna 'Jojo the Techie' is a skilled mobile technology expert with over 15 years of hands-on experience, specializing in the Google ecosystem and Pixel devices. Known for her user-friendly approach, she leverages her vast tech support background to provide accessible and insightful coverage on latest technology trends. As a recognized thought leader and official member of #TeamPixel, Johanna ensures she stays at the forefront of Google services and products, making her a reliable source for all things Pixel and ChromeOS.
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