CES 2023: How Qualcomm is Bringing Satellite-Based Messaging to Android

Qualcomm, American semiconductor producer behind Snapdragon chipsets on the cell platform, has introduced satellite-based two-way messaging characteristic for smartphones on the 2023 Consumer Electronics Show (CES 2023). The firm’s Snapdragon Satellite resolution will enable customers to ship and obtain emergency messages, SMS, and texts on different messaging apps on Android smartphones globally. The characteristic will first come to units primarily based on the corporate’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 cell platform. The same characteristic is obtainable on Apple’s newest iPhones, which lets customers ship emergency SOS messages by way of a satellite tv for pc connection.

The firm has partnered with satellite tv for pc telecommunications firm Iridium to supply the service to customers across the globe. Snapdragon Satellite might be powered by Snapdragon 5G Modem-RF Systems and can utilise Iridium’s constellation of satellites orbiting earth, enabling producers to supply the service worldwide, in accordance with Qualcomm.

It’s price noting that Apple’s Emergency SOS by way of Satellite characteristic is at present solely obtainable in USA, Canada, UK, France, Germany, and Ireland.

Qualcomm’s satellite-based messaging service is anticipated to launch in choose areas someday within the second half of 2023. The firm can also be planning to broaden the characteristic past smartphones to laptops, tablets, autos, and IoT units. It intends for producers and app builders to develop proprietary options and functions primarily based on the capabilities of Snapdragon Satellite.

Garmin, which makes widespread GPS-based exercise monitoring smartwatches, has already stated it intends to collaborate with Qualcomm to deliver the characteristic to its units. Garmin watches have their very own SOS characteristic, Garmin Response, which prompts when a person presses the SOS button, connecting them to the Garming Response group for rescue or support.

Snapdragon Satellite characteristic guarantees to supply “pole-to-pole” coverage for satellite-based two-way messaging in remote, rural, and offshore locations. In addition to emergency use, the service could also be used for recreational purposes. There is currently no word from the company on whether smartphones in India will offer support for Snapdragon Satellite, when it arrives later this year.