CES 2023: Qualcomm Unveils Snapdragon Satellite; Two-Manner Satellite-Primarily based Messaging for Android Telephones to Arrive Quickly

Qualcomm, American semiconductor producer behind Snapdragon chipsets on the cell platform, has introduced satellite-based two-way messaging function 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 function will first come to gadgets primarily based on the corporate’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 cell platform. An identical function is on the market 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 offer 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 response to Qualcomm.

It’s price noting that Apple’s Emergency SOS by way of Satellite function is at present solely out there 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 develop the function past smartphones to laptops, tablets, automobiles, and IoT gadgets. It intends for producers and app builders to develop proprietary options and functions primarily based on the capabilities of Snapdragon Satellite.

Garmin, which makes fashionable GPS-based exercise monitoring smartwatches, has already stated it intends to collaborate with Qualcomm to carry the function to its gadgets. Garmin watches have their very own SOS function, Garmin Response, which prompts when a consumer presses the SOS button, connecting them to the Garming Response staff for rescue or support.

Snapdragon Satellite function 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.