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Rumors of Apple adding satellite communication support to the iPhone 14 have been bolstered by Ming-Chi Kuo’s claim that Apple has completed hardware development for the iPhone 13 feature.
A partnership between SpaceX and T-mobile to bring satellite internet to mobile phones has revived rumors that Apple will offer something similar for the iPhone. According to well-connected TF Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple is already working on the technology to make that possible.
and Moderate In Kuo’s post about iPhone 14 satellite support rumors, Kuo claims to have learned that Apple had “already completed satellite hardware development on the iPhone 13.” This seems to be in line with rumors that iPhone 12 and later models can use this communication technology.
However, Apple did not implement this feature on the iPhone 13 as it did not partner with any service providers.
“The lack of support is because the business model wasn’t negotiated,” says Kuo.
This support could also be included in the iPhone 14, with Kuo adding that Apple has completed hardware testing of the feature before mass production. For the iPhone 14, satellite communication is purported to provide emergency text messaging and voice services rather than general services.
The analyst warns that the launch of the service will depend on “whether Apple and carriers can decide on a business model.” Ultimately, Kuo acknowledges that it’s difficult to predict when Apple will actually roll out the feature, but adds, “I believe it will happen eventually.”
Kuo demonstrated MediaTek’s 5G smartphone hardware being used for satellite communications and the potential for satellite-based emergency text capabilities at a media event for Huawei’s Mate 50 on Sept. 6. , citing it as evidence that Apple must move to provide satellite service to consumers.
As a satellite communications partner, Kuo sees Globalstar as the most likely candidate. In the satellite communications market, companies like Globalstar “have the highest barriers to entry,” Kuo said, requiring investors’ attention.
In April, Globalstar was mentioned as Apple’s most likely partner in a report discussing the possible addition of satellite communications to the Apple Watch alongside the iPhone. Globalstar he reached an agreement in February to purchase 17 new satellites for “continuous satellite service” for an unnamed potential customer believed to be Apple.
The point of adding satellite communication is to eliminate cellular blackspots for iPhone users. In the event of a natural disaster or geopolitical turmoil that damages or renders the mast inoperable, satellite communications will continue to serve as an emergency lifeline.
Apple doesn’t tend to pre-announce its products and services, including potential partnerships with Globalstar and hardware testing, for consumers to expect T-Mobile and SpaceX announcements. Just because it will probably be available sooner.
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