Robert Triggs/Android Authority
TL; PhD
- Apple is expected to include LEO satellite support in its iPhone 13 series.
- This will allow users in rural areas to make calls or send text messages even when there is no cellular signal.
- Apple is expected to launch the iPhone 13 series in September.
According to new rumors from reliable Apple Twitter, iPhone 13 can support low earth orbit (LEO) satellites, enhancing its connectivity in areas with limited coverage.
The tip comes from a reliable Apple analyst Guo Mingchi, quoted Mike Rumor, And pointed out that the “customized Qualcomm X60” modem is used to support the LEO satellite in the iPhone 13 series. Even if there is no cellular service available, this will allow the phone to make calls or send texts.
iPhone 13 and LEO satellite: why?
The use of LEO satellites reported by Apple will not replace 4G and 5G networks, but they allow users to communicate with others even without direct cellular network coverage. This will be very beneficial for people in rural areas or far away from ground stations.
Although high-speed Internet can also be achieved using LEO satellites, it is not clear whether this use case is Apple’s priority. Starlink is currently one of the latest and arguably the most widely known Internet providers based on LEO satellites. The company claims that the maximum speed can reach 1Gbps, and the delay is between 25 milliseconds and 35 milliseconds. It is not clear which satellites the iPhone 13 can support, but the US satellite communications operator Globalstar is clearly operating.
According to reports, Guo also added that Apple may apply this technology to future devices other than mobile phones, including cars.
Whether there is water on the tip of the LEO satellite remains to be seen. Kuo has a good track record, but we still recommend waiting for Apple’s official iPhone 13 release, which may be released on September 14 at the earliest.
In addition to Internet enthusiasts, the iPhone 13 is said to have improved its camera array, including its autofocus for ultra-wide-angle shooting. An under-display fingerprint sensor under the always-on display is also proposed.