Qualcomm Introduces 'Snapdragon Satellite' to Rival Apple's Emergency SOS [Video]

Qualcomm introduced 'Snapdragon Satellite' at CES 2023 this week, describing it as the world's first satellite based solution capable of support two-way messaging for premium smartphones. The feature is set to rival Apple's Emergency SOS via Satellite.

Powered by Snapdragon 5G Modem-RF Systems and supported by the fully operational Iridium satellite constellation, Snapdragon Satellite will enable OEMs and other service providers to offer truly global coverage. The solution for smartphones utilizes Iridium's weather-resilient L-band spectrum for uplink and downlink.

"Robust and reliable connectivity is at the heart of premium experiences. Snapdragon Satellite showcases our history of leadership in enabling global satellite communications and our ability to bring superior innovations to mobile devices at scale," said Durga Malladi, senior vice president and general manager, cellular modems and infrastructure, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. "Kicking off in premium smartphones later this year, this new addition to our Snapdragon platform strongly positions us to enable satellite communication capabilities and service offerings across multiple device categories."




Qualcomm sees Snapdragon Satellite expanding to other devices, including laptops, tablets, vehicles and IoT. Additionally, Snapdragon Satellite is planned to support 5G Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN), as NTN satellite infrastructure and constellations become available.

"Iridium is proud to be the satellite network that supports Snapdragon Satellite for premium smartphones," said Matt Desch, CEO, Iridium. "Our network is tailored for this service – our advanced, LEO satellites cover every part of the globe and support the lower-power, low-latency connections ideal for the satellite-powered services enabled by the industry-leading Snapdragon Satellite. Millions depend on our connections every day, and we look forward to the many millions more connecting through smartphones powered by Snapdragon Satellite."




Emergency messaging on Snapdragon Satellite is planned to be available on next-generation smartphones, launched in select regions starting in the second half of 2023.

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