Bloomberg: Apple is working on emergency satellite features for iPhones, launch in 2021 unlikely

Apple is working on satellite capabilities for the iPhone that will allow users to send texts in emergencies, reports Bloomberg. The feature would also allow iPhone‌ users to report accidents and other emergencies in areas where there is no cell coverage.

There are at least two emergency functions that will rely on satellite networks, and although satellite technology has been in the works for years, these capabilities are not expected to launch in 2021.

The first feature, Satellite Emergency Message, is designed to allow users to send SMS to emergency services and contacts using a satellite network when there is no signal available, and it will be integrated to the Messages application as the third communication protocol with SMS and iMessage. It will have gray message bubbles rather than green or blue, and the length of messages will be limited.

The SMS via satellite tool, named Stewie at Apple, will limit messages to a shorter length. Text messages will automatically be sent to an emergency contact phone, even if the Do Not Disturb setting is enabled. A planned design will allow a user to send the message by typing “Emergency SOS” where they would typically enter the name of a contact. In addition to providing SMS, the service may optionally be able to handle some phone calls as well.

The second feature will allow users to report major emergencies like plane crashes and fires using satellite networks. It will be similar to a “911” call in the United States and can provide information such as a user’s location and medical ID, in addition to alerting emergency contacts.

A report released this weekend by Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said the iPhone 13 will include low-earth orbit satellite communications connectivity to allow users to make calls and send messages without coverage. 4G and 5G, but further analysis indicated that this suggestion is incorrect. and unlikely.

According to Bloomberg, when Apple implements satellite connectivity, it will be limited to “stress scenarios” and will not be an alternative to cellular networks that allow large-scale texting and calls.

Apple will not launch these satellite capabilities in all countries and their availability will depend on local regulations and satellite locations. A built-in function will require users to go outside and walk in a specified direction to help iPhone‌ connect to a satellite. Connections may not be instantaneous, and it may take up to a minute for an “iPhone” to successfully communicate with a satellite.

Connecting to the satellites will require a special modem chip, and Apple will continue to use Qualcomm technology for the next several years. It is not clear whether Apple will partner with Globalstar, as Kuo has suggested. Globalstar’s Competitors Iridium Communications and Omnispace Not Working With Apple, Says Bloomberg, but the report does not exclude Globalstar.

Satellite functionality is unlikely to be ready until next year, although Apple’s modem chips this year may “have the necessary hardware for satellite communications.” The feature could be changed or removed before Apple plans to launch it and it has yet to be finalized.

Apple has considered launching its own satellites, but the planned emergency functionality will be based on existing networks.