Qualcomm launches satellite text messaging service for Android
A new emergency satellite messaging service will tackle mobile “not-spots” when it launches for premium Android smartphone users later this year.
Qualcomm and Iridium have teamed up to launch a new feature called Snapdragon Satellite allowing people to send and receive text messages during emergencies.
The service will be integrated into Qualcomm’s latest line of mobile processors, which are set to power this year’s premium smartphones.
That means only users with high-end handsets will be able to use the service at first, but Qualcomm is planning a broader rollout in the future.
Eventually a range of devices, including tablets, laptops, and cars, will be able to use satellite connectivity to communicate when no mobile coverage available.
The service will be particularly useful in rural and remote areas of the UK where there are not-spots due to a lack of coverage from major operators.
However, it will only be available in selected areas to begin with, though a wider rollout is anticipated.
The service for Android follows Apple’s recent launch of a satellite service for iPhone owners.
Qualcomm is working with Iridium which specialises in satellite communications and has the honour of being the original satellite phone system following its launch 25 years ago.
Iridium updated its network in 2019, and there are currently 75 satellites orbiting 485m above Earth which pass data between them and support comms like text messaging.
Satellite connectivity is growing in popularity and is also being used by Elon Musk’s SpaceX to deliver broadband coverage via its Starlink constellation.