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IPhone 13 is expected to have LEO satellite communication technology to allow users to make calls and send messages in areas without 4G or 5G coverage, according to Ming-Chi Kuo, a famous and trusted Apple analyst .
In a note to investors, Kuo explained that the iPhone 13 line will contain LEO compatible devices. If activated with the relevant software features, it could allow iPhone 13 users to make calls and send messages without the need for a cellular connection.
The iPhone 13 would also have a custom Qualcomm X60 base chip that supports satellite communications. It appears that other smartphone makers are currently waiting until 2022 to adopt the X65 baseband chip needed to implement satellite communication functions.
SpaceX’s Starlink is a funder of the LEO Internet Connection, but the LEO satellite service provider that is “most likely to partner with Apple in terms of technology and service coverage” is said to be Global Star. Qualcomm is also reportedly working with Global Star to support the n53 band in future X65 baseband chips, according to the MacRumors website, which was viewed by Al Arabiya.net.
The “simplest scenario” for providing LEO connectivity to users is for mobile operators to work with Globalstar, Kue explained.
This means that customers of partner network operators can use Global Star’s satellite communication service on iPhone 13 directly through their network operator without the need for additional contracts or payments.
Kuo added that LEO satellite communications is a technology comparable to mmWave 5G in terms of its impact on the networking industry and that Apple could benefit from both technologies.
Kuo said Apple was “optimistic” about the direction of satellite communications and had set up a specific research and development team in related technologies “for some time.”
It is believed that the company intends to bring LEO satellite communications to more devices in the future to “provide innovative experiences.”
This could include Apple’s head-mounted mixed reality display, its futuristic electric car and other IoT accessories, according to Kuo.
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