Qualcomm and Iridium are all set to bring satellite-based messaging to Android phones

Qualcomm and Iridium have partnered to create a satellite-based message service that will be available on premium Android smartphones. Interestingly, Apple had unveiled a similar feature a few months ago, announcing that consumers could use the Apple iPhone 14 smartphones to send emergency messages via satellite link-ups. These services are only available in Canada and the United States. The Android smartphones come with a Qualcomm chip that can connect with satellites even in the absence of cellular data connection and Wi-Fi. 

What is Snapdragon Satellite?

The service offered by Qualcomm and Iridium has been dubbed Snapdragon Satellite. The company announced that this service will be available in select regions starting in the second half of 2023. It will work on smartphones that use the second-generation Snapdragon 8 mobile platform. 

It is important to note that the Snapdragon Satellite will also work on tablets, laptops, and vehicles, without needing special equipment to facilitate the same. The messages will be sent via Iridium’s satellite network while using Qualcomm’s proprietary technology. 

Which devices will have the Snapdragon Satellite? 

At this point, the premium devices that will support Snapdragon Satellite have not been announced.

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