It is hard to believe that even though the internet has become such a fundamental need, there are still areas with poor or non-existent mobile signals. As a person who travels a lot, I often find myself losing reception and asking myself why this is still a problem in 2023. The lack of a mobile signal can cause consequences such as the inability to stay in touch, browse, or access emergency services in critical moments.
Special devices for emergency connectivity such as satellite communication specialized company Iridium’s Garmin. However, compared to most people who rely on their smartphones, only a few have devices specific for emergency connectivity. This is where Snapdragon Satellite comes into play which Qualcomm unveiled at CES 2023.
The Snapdragon Satellite promises to offer truly global coverage and not only emergency but any type of messaging without signal. It takes advantage of its partnership with Iridium, which reportedly already saved thousands of lives with Garmin.
How it works
Normally, a network of cell towers connects to you and then retransmits and receives signals for you. You can easily witness the exponential decrease in signal strength in areas where cellular towers are too far, physical obstructions block the frequencies, or too many devices connect. In urban areas, this may not be a problem due to the many cell towers placed strategically. In rural areas, however, it is rare to have any reception. With Snapdragon Satellite that won’t be a problem anymore.
The only requirement for using Snapdragon Satellite is to have an open sky view for a direct link to one of the many Iridium weather-resistant satellites placed all around the globe and a compatible device- based on Snapdragon 8 Gen 2. The device will then connect to the satellite that will act as the cell tower in traditional reception.
#Snapdragon Satellite combines Snapdragon Connect and the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 to unlock best-in-class connectivity, coverage, and speed for reliable connections from pole to pole. Learn more: https://t.co/cXpahph26R pic.twitter.com/2gf66yIGpn
— Snapdragon (@Snapdragon) January 10, 2023
Supported smartphones will be able to use the service in the second half of 2023 for emergency messaging. Qualcomm revealed its plans to later not only expand the service to any type of messaging but also release it on other devices. This includes laptops, cars, and any compatible IoT device, ensuring we never remain without connectivity. As a frequent traveler, I feel reassured. The ability to message without a mobile signal opens up a new level of communication.
YouTube: Qualcomm Snapdragon Satellite first look at CES 2023
Photo credits: All images shown are owned by Qualcomm and were made available for press usage.
