We have been hearing reports about iPhone 13 having the Satellite Communications feature, which would allow users to deliver messages and make emergency phone calls without cell service.
The original rumor originated from reliable TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. Now Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has shared his two cents on this news, sharing more information about the rumored iPhone feature.
According to Gurman’s report Apple is indeed working on adding Satellite Communication to its future iPhones, however unlike what Kuo suggested last week, the feature will not be available with iPhone 13. Instead the feature might get released next year.
Apple is said to be working on Satellite Communication capabilities for the iPhone that will be focused on helping users in emergency situations. Users will be able to send text messages using the Satellite Communications when cellular network is not available.
Emergency text messages sent via satellite communication will be shorter in length and will become a third protocol of messaging within the stock Messages app. They will also have their unique grey bubble color that will help users in differentiate them from blue iMessage and green SMS message bubbles.
Eventually Apple has plans to allow users to make phone calls over satellite communications. This would enable users to contact emergency services in areas where there is no cell coverage, including remote locations, mountains, lakes etc.
While Apple will be relying on existing satellite networks for this service, the company has also considered deploying its own satellites.
Apple is also making it easier for iPhone users to report emergency situations over satellite communication, allowing them to communicate without cell coverage to report a car, boat or plane accident. The service will be able to send user’s location as well as Medical ID while notifying emergency services and emergency contact.
Apple is expected to launch iPhone 13 in the mid of September next month. It would be interesting to see if the company shares its plans about working on Satellite Communication or not.
