iPhone 13 could talk to LEO satellites to broaden networking capabilities
Robert Triggs / Android Authority
TL; DR
- Apple has the tip of adding LEO satellite support to its iPhone 13 series.
- This would allow users in rural areas to make calls or send SMS without a cell phone signal.
- Apple is expected to launch the iPhone 13 series in September.
According to a new rumor from a trusted Apple tipster, the iPhone 13 could add support for Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites and strengthen its connectivity capabilities in areas with limited coverage.
The tip comes from the reliable Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, quoted by MacRumors, and indicates the use of a “Qualcomm X60 custom” modem that supports LEO satellites across the iPhone 13 line. This would allow the phones to make calls or send texts even when there is no cellular service available.
iPhone 13 and LEO satellites: why?
Apple’s reported use of LEO satellites would not be a substitute for 4G and 5G networks, but they would allow users to communicate with others even when there is no immediate cellular coverage. This would be of great benefit to those in rural areas or those who are not close to ground stations.
Although high-speed internet is also possible via LEO satellites, it is unclear whether this use case is a priority for Apple. Starlink is currently one of the newest and best known satellite-based LEO internet providers. The company claims top speeds of up to 1 Gbps with latencies between 25 ms and 35 ms. It’s unclear which satellites the iPhone 13 could support, but American satellite communications operator Globalstar is apparently in the running.
Kuo also reportedly adds that Apple could potentially bring this technology to future devices beyond phones, including cars.
It remains to be seen whether the LEO satellite tip will hold water. Kuo has a solid track record, but we still recommend waiting for Apple’s official iPhone 13 announcement, which could come as early as September 14th.
Beyond network fans, the iPhone 13 is said to bring improvements to its camera array, including auto focus for its ultra-wide shooter. A fingerprint sensor under the display under an always-on display is also being discussed.
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