Introducing the new iPhone 14 series on September 8, Apple, with this new series, did not make any physical changes, especially in the entry models. However, the connection features of the devices included features that opened a new page in the smartphone world. Apple launched the iPhone 14s in the US without a SIM card slot, with it introduced the emergency satellite communication system.
This new technology, with which users can perform emergency communications in cases where they do not have an internet and cellular connection, will be put into service in the USA and Canada in November. Although Apple did not officially announce the hardware that provides this service on the day of the launch, that information was shared this weekend.
What makes the iPhone 14 have satellite link support?
According to the news of Reuters; The hardware that enables communication via satellite in the iPhone 14 series was Qualcomm’s X65 modem. Oddly enough, this modem is also included in many high-end Android phones these days. So what is the reason why Apple offers the satellite connection feature and Android manufacturers do not?
The answer to this question was partially given by Apple, who made a statement to Reuters. In its statement, Apple shared that it also developed its own radio frequency components and software along with the Qualcomm X65 modem. In addition, Apple has also made an agreement for the satellite infrastructure managed by Globalstar in order to use the satellite feature.
Qualcomm’s X65 modem supports the frequency called “band n53” as well as 5G connectivity. The band in question is also managed by Globalstar. Thanks to this band support, iPhone phones can stay in contact with satellites in the sky.
So, will the same feature come to Android?
A few days before Apple introduced the new iPhone 14 series, an important statement came from Google. Android Senior Vice President Hiroshi Lockheimer announced that the next Android version, namely Android 14, will have built-in satellite support. This will pave the way for satellite connection support on Android devices, and other necessary additions will be covered by the manufacturers. So yes, we may start seeing the satellite link on Android devices very soon.
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