(Credit: Shutterstock / Dima Zel)
It looks like Samsung will be adding satellite features to the Galaxy S24.
As SamMobile reports, Samsung’s Park Yong-in confirmed at the 2023 Semiconductor Expo (SEDEX) that satellite connectivity will be available on the company's flagship phones next year. He didn't elaborate, but the next big flagship for Samsung will probably be the Galaxy S24 series (the S23 made its debut in February).
Shortly after the S23 launch, Samsung announced it was developing modem technology that would allow for satellite communication. At the time, it didn't offer details, such as the data transfer speeds. But the company said it simulated the 5G satellite communication via an Exynos Modem 5300, which is reportedly used in the Google Pixel 7 phone.
Apple introduced satellite connectivity with the iPhone 14 last year. The feature allows users to contact emergency services in situations where there might not be cellular or Wi-Fi connectivity, like people who get lost or injured while hiking in remote areas.
Apple’s Emergency SOS asks people questions about their situation and then transmits that information to a relay center, where it is then sent to emergency services. Last month, it added Roadside Assistance via satellite, which calls AAA instead of 911 for those with car trouble.
While Samsung’s deployment of the technology might work similarly, the company has also reportedly been working on the ability for users to send and receive messages of any kind via satellite, not just in emergency situations, 9to5Mac reports.
Since its launch, Apple's service has been responsible for the rescue of several individuals from dangerous situations, including a family that was trapped during the recent fires in Maui.