Earlier today, Samsung announced its own satellite communication solution on smartphones. The company unveiled the 5G Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) modem so that phones can communicate with satellites in places where there is no cellular network connectivity.
The company said it aims to integrate the technology into its own Exynos chip, which is used in many Samsung smartphones, but not in the current flagship device, the Samsung Galaxy S23. The Korean tech giant describes the technology as using “satellites and other non-terrestrial vehicles” to provide connectivity in remote areas.
The move follows Apple, which launched satellite connectivity with the iPhone 14 and 14 Pro for off-grid connectivity. The company first made this technology available in the United States and Canada, then expanded it to France, Germany, Ireland, and the United Kingdom. Apple relies on Globalstar’s satellite network.
“This step builds on our rich heritage in wireless communication technologies, following the introduction of the industry’s first commercial 4G LTE modem in 2009 and the industry’s first 5G modem in 2018,” Min said. Goo Kim, vice president of communication processor development at Samsung Electronics. in a report.
“Samsung aims to take the lead in advancing hybrid terrestrial-NTN communications ecosystems around the world in preparation for the arrival of 6G.”
The current generation of satellite communication technology promises two-way texting and calling for emergencies. But Samsung says future versions of its technology will also be able to send photos and videos.
Last month at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Qualcomm announced a partnership with Iridium to bring satellite communication to Android phones powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2.
