Apple to Introduce Satellite Communication Feature in iPhone

Emergency signals and messages can be sent during urgent situations even without a communication network
"Official adoption is expected to be after next year"

[Image source=EPA Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Suhwan] Apple is reportedly planning to introduce satellite communication functionality for emergency situations in all future iPhone models.

On the 30th (local time), Bloomberg News cited sources saying that Apple plans to incorporate satellite communication features into the iPhone, allowing users to send and receive messages via satellite even when there is no 4G or 5G network available nearby in emergencies.

According to Bloomberg News, Apple has been developing this satellite communication technology since 2017.

The report states that the next-generation iPhone, scheduled for release in September, is expected to be equipped with hardware for satellite communication. However, sources indicated that the official launch of the satellite communication feature is likely to occur only after next year.

Earlier on the 29th, foreign media reported that renowned analyst Guo Mingchi explained in a letter to investors that the iPhone 13 lineup would include hardware capable of connecting to low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites.

LEO satellites are gaining attention as next-generation communication networks due to their low latency, enabling mobile communication services anytime and anywhere.

According to Bloomberg News, Apple plans to introduce this feature primarily to assist users in emergency situations.

Specifically, Apple intends to integrate the satellite communication function into its native messaging app, linking it seamlessly with regular message sending and receiving functions. Unlike regular messages, which appear in green, satellite communication messages will be displayed in gray.

Additionally, users will be able to utilize the satellite communication feature to send distress signals in emergencies such as airplane crashes or ship sinkings.

Bloomberg News also reported that a satellite phone function may be introduced.

Through this feature, users will be able to send their real-time location to others and automatically send messages to emergency contacts personally saved by the user, such as family members and medical personnel.

However, this feature will only be usable in areas where satellite service is available, and it is expected that connecting to the satellite will take about one minute, making immediate communication challenging.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.