In January, Qualcomm unveiled Project Snapdragon Satellite, allowing Android users to send texts via satellite without cell service, aiming to rival Apple’s emergency SOS feature. However, the project didn’t pan out as anticipated.
Qualcomm has ended its partnership with satellite phone maker Iridium, citing a lack of inclusion of the technology in smartphone devices. According to Iridium, smartphone makers have shown a preference for standards-based solutions, prompting Qualcomm to seek a more open approach.
Additionally, skyrocketing costs of satellite texting may have deterred some manufacturers from implementing the technology. Meanwhile, Apple has taken the initiative to fund emergency SOS for the time being.
As Qualcomm’s agreements with Iridium come to a close, Iridium plans to collaborate directly with smartphone makers, mobile OS developers, and other chipmakers. On the other hand, Apple has expanded its emergency SOS feature with crash detection integration.
Elsewhere, Starlink is pioneering satellite-powered voice and data functions directly to phones, eliminating the need for a nearby Starlink terminal.
