On August 25, 2022, The Verge reported that the iPhone 14 and Apple Watch would feature satellite communication capabilities. This means that phones can stay connected via satellite services without needing a carrier, even in areas without 4G/5G signal coverage. On November 26, 2024, Huawei released the Mate 70, pushing the satellite communication technology in smartphones to new heights once again.
Technology Behind Direct Satellite Connection
Companies like SpaceX, AST&Science, and Lynk Global have released some technical prototypes. These companies leverage their different technological strengths to try out satellite connections, with the common approach being “moving ground base stations to the sky.” By using large-scale phased array systems, they increase antenna gain so that satellites can receive the weak signals emitted by phones. Additionally, they ensure sufficient transmission power so that ground-based phones can receive the signals.
Currently, direct satellite connection technology for existing phones is also a hotspot for startups. AST plans to deploy 168 satellites by 2025, Lynk Global claimed in 2022 that it could provide LTE communication at speeds of up to 200 kb/s, and SpaceX's V2.0, in collaboration with traditional carrier T-Mobile, completed tests of existing phones connecting directly to satellites, achieving speeds of 17 Mb/s.
Of course, changing satellites is just one part of the phone-to-satellite connection technology. Another approach involves utilizing existing satellites and communication protocols, with modifications made to phones to support satellite communication. This solution is typically developed by satellite operators, phone manufacturers, and chip makers, often through custom-designed satellite communication chips for phones. Recent models like the Huawei Mate 50 (Beidou short messages) and iPhone 14 (Global Star messaging) use this method.
Although existing technologies already allow phone-to-satellite connections, a better solution in the future will likely involve upgrading both satellites and phones to meet future demands.
Is Direct Satellite Connection for Phones the Future Trend?
Since the release of the iPhone 14, more manufacturers have started launching phones that can connect directly to satellites. However, despite the enthusiasm from many companies, the sales volume of satellite-connected phones remains low. Aside from Huawei and Apple, other brands that support satellite communication typically see annual shipments of these phones in the millions or even less, which raises the question: is satellite connectivity truly the future of smartphones?
In the past two years, smartphone makers have been increasing investment in communication capabilities, placing greater emphasis on communication as a core feature. Given that the current terrestrial cellular network is already sufficient for most people’s daily use, why connect phones to satellites? Imagine being stranded in an expansive, desolate desert with all communication means failed. In such a scenario, direct satellite connection becomes the only way to stay connected, potentially saving lives. While this may not be a consideration for 99% of users, for that 1%, it could truly “extend a life” in critical moments.
At this stage, while the technology for direct satellite connection is beginning to show promise, its application needs remain somewhat vague and uncertain. Looking ahead, the demand for this technology will become clearer and more diversified. As technology matures and becomes more widespread, phone-to-satellite communication will no longer be limited to emergency situations but will integrate into many aspects of daily life. Whether for real-time location and navigation for outdoor adventurers, stable communication for maritime travelers, or urgent communication needs during natural disasters, direct satellite connection will become an essential technology. These specific and practical use cases will drive the continued development and broader application of this technology, delivering deeper and more comprehensive services.
