Tag: satellite connectivity

  • iPhone 18 Pro Foldable Ultra Aims to Fix Apple Reception Issues (Leak)

    iPhone 18 Pro Foldable Ultra Aims to Fix Apple Reception Issues (Leak)

    Key Takeaway

    – Apple reportedly aims to turn satellite connectivity from emergency-only to everyday use with the iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max, and Ultra, via a new C2 modem and 5G NR-NTN support.
    – The system would automatically switch to satellite when cellular signals are weak, removing the need to manually connect to satellites.
    – This could enable more reliable connectivity in low-signal areas (pockets, cars, indoors), potentially expanding satellite coverage as a standard feature by September release.

    Overview

    If you’ve ever experienced reception issues with your iPhone (and most people have), you’d be thrilled to find out Apple’s upcoming iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max and the foldable iPhone Ultra may mark a significant shift for satellite connectivity, moving the technology from an emergency-only to an everyday feature. The topic suggests a notable change in how users stay connected, with implications for daily use and reliability.

    Speculations and Technology

    Recent reports say the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone Ultra will feature Apple’s new proprietary “C2” modem, which is rumored to support 5G Non-Terrestrial Networks (5G NR-NTN). This integration is expected to allow Apple’s 2026 iPhone lineup to automatically fall back to satellite coverage when cellular signals are weak, eliminating the need for users to manually point their phones at a satellite, a convenience that could alter user behavior in urban and rural settings alike.

    Connectivity Goals

    By making use of 5G over satellite, the goal is to keep users connected in areas where traditional cell reception fails, potentially ensuring connectivity even while a phone is in a pocket, inside a car, or indoors. The emphasis on seamless handoff hints at improved user experience, though adoption and real-world performance will depend on carrier partnerships and satellite network expansion beyond preliminary tests.

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  • Xiaomi 17 Ultra vs 17 Pro Max: Key Differences & Satellite Support

    Xiaomi 17 Ultra vs 17 Pro Max: Key Differences & Satellite Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Xiaomi 17 Pro and Pro Max feature large secondary screens and have set sales records in China.
    2. Only the Xiaomi 17 and Xiaomi 17 Ultra will be available globally, similar to previous models.
    3. The Xiaomi 17 Ultra is expected to have advanced camera technology but will lack a secondary display.
    4. The Xiaomi 17 Ultra will support satellite connectivity in some global variants, while the Indian model may not.
    5. The pricing for the smaller Xiaomi 17 is currently set at $890 on Amazon.

    The Xiaomi 17 Pro and Xiaomi 17 Pro Max are considered some of the most unique flagship smartphones released in recent times, primarily because of their large secondary screens. They remind us of the Mi 11 Ultra and are believed to have broken sales records in China. Sadly, early leaks indicate that these models might not be available outside of Xiaomi’s home country.

    Global Offerings

    For now, it seems that the Xiaomi 17 and Xiaomi 17 Ultra will be the models available worldwide, similar to what happened with the Xiaomi 15 Ultra and the smaller Xiaomi 15, which is currently priced at $890 on Amazon. The Xiaomi 17 Ultra is anticipated to come with more sophisticated camera technology compared to the other models in the Xiaomi 17 lineup. However, XiaomiTime reports that the Xiaomi 17 Ultra will lack a significant feature found in the Pro and Pro Max versions.

    Key Features Missing

    According to the website, Xiaomi will not incorporate a secondary display in its next Ultra-branded device, which contrasts with the Mi 11 Ultra. Instead, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra is rumored to support satellite connectivity across its global variants, the 2512BPNDAG and 2512BPNDAC. While India is also expected to get the Xiaomi 17 Ultra under the model number 2512BPNDAI, XiaomiTime suggests that this specific variant will not have satellite connectivity at all.

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  • Garmin Launches GPS Handheld with Satellite, Flashlight, Cameras

    Garmin Launches GPS Handheld with Satellite, Flashlight, Cameras

    Key Takeaways

    1. Emergency Communication: The Garmin GPSMap H1i Plus allows users to make satellite emergency calls, send/receive text messages, and share photos and voice messages with an inReach subscription.

    2. Garmin LiveTrack: Friends and family can track the user’s location in real-time using the Garmin LiveTrack feature.

    3. Battery Life and Durability: The device offers up to 480 hours in expedition mode, is IP67 waterproof, and can be recharged via USB-C.

    4. Camera and Storage: It includes a 5MP selfie camera, an 8MP main camera for sharing images, and 64GB of storage for maps and data.

    5. Pricing: The Garmin GPSMap H1i Plus is priced at $999, while the non-satellite GPSMap H1 is available for $699.

    Along with the new Garmin Fenix 8 Pro microLED, the outdoor expert has also launched a new GPS unit today. This handheld gadget, similar to the smartwatch, features inReach integration. When paired with an inReach subscription, this device can make emergency calls through satellite, even in places without mobile network coverage.

    Emergency Communication Features

    Not only can users make emergency calls, but they can also send and receive text messages, along with sharing photos and voice messages lasting up to 30 seconds. A feature called Garmin LiveTrack allows friends and family to track the location of the GPSMap H1i Plus. The device has a 3.5-inch touchscreen that boasts a resolution of 470 x 282 pixels, primarily displaying Garmin’s TopoActive maps and satellite imagery that can be downloaded via WiFi. Premium maps can be accessed with a Garmin Outdoor Maps+ subscription.

    Battery and Durability

    Garmin claims that the battery can last up to 480 hours in expedition mode, 145 hours while actively using GPS navigation, or at least 48 hours with inReach activated. When the battery is depleted, it can be recharged using USB-C. Additionally, the Garmin GPSMap H1i Plus holds an IP67 certification, making it waterproof. It also includes an LED flashlight, a 5MP selfie camera, and an 8MP main camera for capturing and sharing images via satellite. The built-in voice assistant is handy for starting navigation or sending messages. Garmin has provided the device with 64GB of storage for maps and other data.

    Pricing Information

    The Garmin GPSMap H1i Plus handheld device, equipped with satellite connectivity, is available now at Garmin’s online store for $999. The GPSMap H1, which lacks satellite connectivity but shares similar features, is priced at $699.

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    Garmin Launches GPS Handheld with Satellite, Flashlight, Cameras

     

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  • Apple Watch Ultra 3 Leak Reveals Bigger Display Details

    Apple Watch Ultra 3 Leak Reveals Bigger Display Details

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Apple Watch Ultra 2, priced at $649, was released in September 2023 and is nearing two years old.
    2. An updated version, the Apple Watch Ultra 3, is expected to be announced on September 9, with a slightly larger OLED display (514 x 422 pixels).
    3. The new display will provide 5.4% more screen space due to design changes, potentially reducing bezels even if the case remains the same.
    4. Anticipated features for the Ultra 3 include satellite connectivity, a newer LTPO3 OLED panel, an integrated 5G modem, and an upgraded Apple S11 chipset.
    5. A basic blood pressure measurement feature may be included, offering warnings for high blood pressure rather than exact values.

    The Apple Watch Ultra 2, starting at $649 on Amazon, was released in September 2023, making it nearly two years old. This September, Apple is anticipated to introduce an updated version of the Apple Watch Ultra. MacRumors has already shared information regarding the screen resolution of this upcoming smartwatch, which was discovered in the code of the new iOS 26 beta.

    Display Enhancements

    The flagship smartwatch’s OLED screen will feature a resolution of 514 x 422 pixels, compared to the 502 x 410 pixels of the Apple Watch Ultra 2. Assuming the pixel density remains the same, the device will offer a display that is 2.9% wider and 2.3% taller, resulting in 5.4% additional screen space. This leak indicates that Apple might make some design changes to the smartwatch. Even if the case design stays the same, the larger display should significantly reduce the size of the bezels.

    Anticipated Features

    The Apple Watch Ultra 3 is likely to be officially revealed on Tuesday, September 9. Besides the slightly larger display, several other features are rumored to be included, such as satellite connectivity for emergency calls, a newer LTPO3 OLED panel that allows for a more frequently updated always-on display, an integrated 5G modem, and an upgraded Apple S11 chipset. There might also be a basic blood pressure measurement feature, which, while it might not provide exact values, could offer warnings for high blood pressure.

    MacRumors believes that these enhancements will make the new smartwatch more appealing to consumers looking for advanced features in wearables.

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  • Xiaomi Mix Flip 3 Launching Soon with Limited Edition Model

    Xiaomi Mix Flip 3 Launching Soon with Limited Edition Model

    Key Takeaways

    – Xiaomi is developing the Mix Flip 3, following the Mix Flip 2 released recently in China.
    – The Mix Flip 3 is expected to be launched around March 2026, possibly one or two months later.
    – Model numbers for the Mix Flip 3 are 2603APX0AC and 2603EPX2DC, intended for the Chinese market.
    – The Mix Flip 3 may feature satellite connectivity, potentially available in a special edition model.
    – The codename for the Mix Flip 3 is ‘Pixiu’, with an internal label of ‘P8’.

    It appears that Xiaomi is in the works of creating its upcoming Mix Flip clamshell foldable. To remind you, the company launched the Mix Flip 2 in China just a bit over a month ago. Although the competitor Razr 60 Ultra (currently priced at $1,099 on Amazon) hasn’t made its way to the global market yet, customers can still import the Mix Flip 2 from various trusted sellers.

    Upcoming Launch Plans

    From what we can see, Xiaomi aims to unveil the Mix Flip 3 within a year following the Mix Flip 2’s release. A well-known Weibo account, Experience more, has reported that Xiaomi is working on its next Mix Flip model with the model numbers 2603APX0AC and 2603EPX2DC, both of which are intended for the Chinese market only. The leaker also mentioned that the Mix Flip 3 carries the codename ‘Pixiu’ and has an internal label of ‘P8’.

    Release Timing Speculations

    Based on these model numbers, we can guess that the expected release date might be around March 2026. However, the actual launch could potentially be a month or two later, similar to what happened this year with the Mix Flip 2, linked to the model number ‘2505APX7BC’. Even if the Mix Flip 3 arrives in May, it would still be two months ahead of the Mix Flip 2.

    Features and Connectivity

    Experience more also suggests that the Mix Flip 3 will feature satellite connectivity. Similar to the Redmi Note 15 Pro Plus Satcom Edition, this feature might only be available for a special edition model. Therefore, we believe that either 2603APX0AC or 2603EPX2DC could be connected to the Mix Flip 3 Satcom Edition at this point.

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  • Google Pixel 9a Appears in FCC Database, Revealing Key Specs

    Google Pixel 9a Appears in FCC Database, Revealing Key Specs

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Pixel 9a has passed FCC filing, revealing new hardware details.
    2. It will support LTE, 5G, Wi-Fi 2.4, Wi-Fi 5, Wi-Fi 6E, NFC, and wireless charging.
    3. The Pixel 9a will include satellite connectivity, a feature previously exclusive to higher-end models.
    4. It may become the first mid-range smartphone with satellite calling capabilities.
    5. The official launch of the Pixel 9a is expected soon, with design leaks already emerging.

    The tech industry is abuzz with excitement over Google’s upcoming midrange smartphone, the Pixel 9a. As we get closer to its launch, this device has appeared in the FCC database, unveiling some intriguing hardware details.

    Hardware Insights

    The Pixel 9a has successfully gone through the filing process with the Federal Communication Commission (FCC). This means there are fresh details about the smartphone available in the FCC’s records. Although some hardware specifications remain undisclosed, the connectivity features of the Pixel 9a have been revealed in the Commission’s documentation.

    Connectivity Features

    Notably, the Pixel 9a (identified by model numbers GTF7P and G3Y12) is set to include LTE and 5G band support, along with Wi-Fi 2.4 and Wi-Fi 5 capabilities. Furthermore, the device will support Wi-Fi 6E, NFC, and will have wireless charging capabilities.

    Unique Satellite Connectivity

    What’s particularly intriguing is that the FCC filing indicates the Pixel 9a will inherit satellite connectivity from the higher-end Pixel 9 (currently priced at $599 on Amazon) and Pixel 9 Pro models. This could position the Pixel 9a as the first mid-range smartphone with satellite connectivity. At present, the only smartphones that offer satellite calling are the previously mentioned Pixel 9 devices, the Samsung Galaxy S25 series, and iPhones from the 14, 15, and 16 families.

    The official unveiling of the Pixel 9a is likely right around the corner. Recent renders provide a glimpse of the anticipated design, leaks are increasing, and Google has a history of launching its a-series smartphones in the middle of the year.

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  • Find X8 Pro’s First Look: Stunning Micro-Curved Display

    Find X8 Pro’s First Look: Stunning Micro-Curved Display

    The Find X8 series is set to be the next range of top-tier devices from the company owned by BBK. We owe thanks to Zhao Yibao, who is leading and managing the creation of Find X phones, for giving us a glimpse of what the X8 Pro looks like. This reveal is the first instance of seeing the more expensive version of the Oppo Find X8 in a real-world photograph, specifically showcasing its front.

    Redesigned Back for the Base Model

    Previously, it was mentioned that the "base" X8 would feature a revamped back design.

    Features of the X8 Pro

    Returning to the X8 Pro, a recent post on Weibo has confirmed some exciting features, including satellite connectivity and a punch-hole camera located on the front. In the comments, Zhao described the screen as an “equal depth four micro curved screen,” while the standard Oppo Find X8 might opt for a flat display instead.

    The way the company is teasing its new devices suggests that a launch event is likely on the horizon, possibly happening sooner than we expect.

    Weibo (in Chinese) via Gadgets360.

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  • Garmin inReach Messenger Plus Launches with Picture and Voice Support

    Garmin inReach Messenger Plus Launches with Picture and Voice Support

    The introduction of a new device to the inReach lineup may appear somewhat unnecessary, especially since Garmin, the manufacturer, is now offering satellite services for Android devices. Nevertheless, the Messenger Plus could maintain its relevance for a while, thanks to its novel capability of sending non-text messages without needing mobile data or Wi-Fi.

    Features and Battery Life

    Moreover, the Messenger Plus is rated IPX7 for waterproofing and boasts a battery life that can last up to 600 hours on a single charge, even when set to share location every 10 minutes.

    Despite these advantages, it still requires a connected smartphone to send voice or photo messages through Garmin’s app. These messages can be forwarded directly to Garmin Response, which is a "24/7-staffed international emergency assistance coordination center," or sent to a user’s contacts. Additionally, the messages can include GPS coordinates.

    Subscription and Pricing

    Ultimately, the device offers standalone satellite connectivity; however, this feature requires a monthly subscription starting at $14.99.

    As for pricing, the inReach Messenger Plus communicator retails for $499.99 on garmin.com, while its predecessor, the Mini 2, is available for $359.79 on Amazon.

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