Qualcomm today announced plans to bring satellite-based connectivity to next-gen Android smartphones, giving smartphone makers like Samsung and Google a way to compete with the satellite emergency SOS feature that Apple is launching alongside the iPhone 14 introduced models.
Snapdragon Satellite is a satellite-based two-way messaging solution provided by satellite company Iridium. According to Qualcomm, support for messaging via satellite connectivity will be built into the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 mobile platform, with smartphones using the technology expected to launch in the second half of 2023.
Qualcomm says the Snapdragon satellite feature will initially be used for emergency messaging, similar to Apple’s Emergency SOS via Satellite feature, which is being made available through a partnership with Globalstar. Qualcomm also mentions text messaging and connectivity in remote, rural and offshore locations as possible use cases for the Snapdragon Satellite, suggesting that it may not be limited to emergency use in the future.
While Snapdragon Satellite will be launched in smartphones first, Qualcomm says it can also be used for laptops, tablets, vehicles and IoT devices, with OEMs and app developers able to differentiate and offer uniquely branded services that leverage satellite connectivity .
Snapdragon Satellite will use the Iridium satellite constellation, which uses L-band spectrum, which Iridium says is “more weather-resistant” than frequencies used by other networks. Android smartphones using Snapdragon Satellite still need a clear view of the sky to function, and messages can be sent in as little as 10 seconds with a solid connection.
In addition to working with Iridium, Qualcomm also plans to partner with Garmin to provide emergency services for users. There’s no word yet on how the Iridium, Qualcomm and Android smartphone makers plan to charge customers for satellite access.
