Tag: satellite communication

  • CES 2025: OffGrid HMD Enables Two-Way Satellite Messaging

    CES 2025: OffGrid HMD Enables Two-Way Satellite Messaging

    The iPhone 14 was the first smartphone that introduced Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN), also known as satellite communications, and it was soon followed by the Pixel 9 series. Now, it seems that the Xiaomi 15 Ultra is set to join the ranks with this feature. But what if you own a different phone and don’t want to spend a lot on a separate satellite communicator for your next off-the-grid adventure?

    Introduction of a New Device

    A new device that may be just what you need was unveiled at CES 2015, and interestingly, it comes from HMD, which is known as the last home of the Nokia brand. For many of us, a Nokia phone was likely our first real taste of staying connected while on the go.

    Features of the HMD OffGrid

    The HMD OffGrid is a compact gadget that connects to satellites through the L band spectrum, linking with your smartphone via Bluetooth. This connection enables your phone to send and receive text messages, share live location information, and contact emergency services using an SOS feature. Additionally, the ‘check in’ function allows users to send pre-set messages to their friends with just the push of a button. Recipients don’t need the OffGrid app to receive messages; they only need to be able to text back.

    Size and Durability

    This device is quite small, measuring 3.7 x 2.4 x 0.47 inches and weighing only 60 g (2.1 oz). HMD also claims that it is rugged and meets military-grade durability standards (MIL-STD-810H), but it’s wise to approach such claims with skepticism. The built-in 600mAh battery is said to last for about three days.

    Subscription Plans

    However, to access its features, you’ll need a subscription. HMD’s Unlimited Plan costs $15 per month or $140 per year (with a one-time activation fee of $10), which provides unlimited messages, check-in, and SOS services. The Freedom Plan, priced at $80 per year, limits texts (including check-ins) to 350. Both plans include the SOS service, and you can add location tracking to either plan at any time for an additional $6 per month.

    Starting in January, the HMD OffGrid will be available in the US, Europe, and Australia/New Zealand, with plans to expand to more regions throughout the year. You can currently order it from HMD’s website for $199. If your budget allows, the Garmin inReach Mini 2 is also available on Amazon for $299, while the older inReach Messenger has a current discount, priced at $235.

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  • Samsung Galaxy Phones Could Soon Feature Satellite Connectivity

    Samsung Galaxy Phones Could Soon Feature Satellite Connectivity

    Samsung is on the verge of integrating satellite communication into its Galaxy smartphone series. Android Authority has uncovered code snippets in mobile applications that strongly indicate this forthcoming feature.

    Specifically, references to “satellite mode” and “emergency texts via satellite” were identified in Samsung’s Emergency SOS, Messages, and Phone applications. This suggests that Samsung is gearing up to join the satellite connectivity trend initiated by Apple. However, the exact release date and the phone models that will support this feature remain unknown.

    Code in Emergency SOS App

    <string name="satelliteText">Emergency texts via satellite</string>
    <string name="satelliteHeading">If you call emergency services when you’re out of range or not connected to a mobile network, we’ll connect you via satellite so you can send an emergency text</string>

    Code in Samsung Messages App

    <string name="satellite_network_mode_title">Satellite mode not supported</string>
    <string name="samsung_message_do_not_provide_satellite_network_mode">Samsung Messages doesn't support satellite messaging. To send and receive texts via satellite, you need to make Google Messages your default messaging app.</string>

    Code in Phone App

    <string name="sat_mode_inline_cue_text">You're in satellite mode. You can send text messages, including to 911. Emergency calls may still connect if a mobile network is available near you.</string>
    <string name="sat_mode_send_message">Send message</string>
    <string name="sat_mode_waring_dialog_message">You can send and receive text messages in Satellite mode. Emergency calls may still connect if a mobile network is available near you.</string>

    According to Android Authority, this feature might be launched with the Android 15 operating system, although its integration into Samsung’s One UI 7 interface might take some additional time.

    The addition of satellite communication in Samsung phones has been anticipated since Apple introduced it with the iPhone 14. Samsung executive Park Yong-in had promised two-way satellite connectivity for Galaxy phones by 2024, but it is still not present in the latest Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Flip 6 models. There is a possibility that a software update could activate satellite connectivity on these devices.

    Unlike Apple, which limits the feature to emergency messaging, Samsung’s satellite connectivity is rumored to extend beyond emergencies, allowing users to send messages through any application.

    Interestingly, Google Pixel phones have also demonstrated signs of satellite connectivity, although this feature is currently active for Pixel devices. This collective evidence indicates that satellite messaging for Android phones, including Galaxy models, could become available in the near future.

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  • Huawei P70 models set to include diverse chipset frequencies and potential satellite communication.

    Huawei P70 models set to include diverse chipset frequencies and potential satellite communication.

    Huawei is preparing for the launch of its upcoming flagship smartphones, the P70 series. Recent information suggests that these devices will offer different chipset frequencies across models, along with other exciting upgrades.

    Huawei P70 Series and Curved Displays

    According to a tipster on Weibo, the standard and high-end models of the P70 series may feature a powerful Kirin chipset, potentially the Kirin 9000s found in the Mate 60 series. However, there’s a twist: the high-end models like the P70 Pro, P70 Art, and the rumored P70 Pro+ might come with an overclocked version of this chipset, aiming to provide a 20% performance boost. While the core architecture details are still unknown, different clock speeds could be the key to achieving this improvement. Reports suggest that China’s largest chipmaker, SMIC, is preparing to produce these 5nm chips.

    The tipster also reveals that all four models in the P70 series might feature a curved 1.5K resolution screen for enhanced visuals. Huawei is reportedly testing various screen sizes and experimenting with a combination of four China-made display panels, indicating significant display upgrades compared to previous generations.

    Satellite Communication Technology

    Another exciting aspect of the P70 series is the potential inclusion of satellite communication technology. Tipsters claim that all models might integrate satellite features, offering an improved and more widespread experience. Previously, satellite connectivity was mostly limited to high-end models, with the base variants missing out.

    Huawei first introduced smartphone satellite connectivity with the Mate 50 Pro in 2022, enabling one-way satellite SMS functionality. The P60 Pro and P60 Art expanded on this by introducing two-way satellite SMS. The Mate 60 series then took it a step further by offering two-way satellite calling for the Pro and Pro+ models. With the P70 series, Huawei could democratize satellite features across all models or adopt a similar strategy to the Mate 60 series, where higher-end variants offer calling capabilities while the base model retains two-way SMS.

    Launch Date and HarmonyOS NEXT

    The Huawei P70 series is expected to be launched in the Chinese market by the end of March or early April. Additionally, the company is actively developing HarmonyOS NEXT, a next-generation operating system built on its proprietary kernel. This operating system will completely eliminate support for Android apps.

    • Huawei P70 models set to include diverse chipset frequencies and potential satellite communication.
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