Qualcomm will integrate satellite service into Android phones in the coming year

Qualcomm has announced the Snapdragon satellite, which will connect selected premium Snapdragon-powered smartphones to Iridium satellite networks for emergency text messaging in 2023’s second half.

This means that Android smartphones can iterate and scale. SOS emergencyApple’s satellite services that allow iPhone 14 models send text messages back-and-forth with emergency services.

The Snapdragon Satellite can send the same “emergency message” text messages as SOS displays to hikers and those who live in rural areas. CNET editor James Kim died in 2006After his family was unable to call for help, he attempted to walk 10 miles through the snowy Oregon Mountains. (Qualcomm points out that this feature will only be possible if there is a clear view of the sky. Qualcomm claims that the Snapdragon Satellite can do more.

Correction: “The Snapdragon Satellite can support two-way messaging for emergency use, SMS, and other messaging apps,” a Qualcomm representative said in a statement emailed to PCWorld. “We think it’s an important nuance that sets our product apart from the competition, so I wanted to make sure you’re aware of that.“

Qualcomm announced at CES that new capabilities will be related next-generation smartphones from “select regions,” which use Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 Mobile Platform. Qualcomm stated that it will eventually expand to other platforms such as laptops and Internet of Things devices. The Snapdragon Satellite is expected to support 5G Non-Terrestrial Networks (5GNTN), where NTN’s satellite infrastructure and star configurations become available. Branded services will vary depending on the device maker and carrier.

Updated at 10.27 AM PST Jan 6th, 2023 with additional comment by Qualcomm.