In January, Qualcomm is rumored to release “Snapdragon Satellite” for smartphones, while Samsung plans to introduce its own version of the technology for Exynos chips. This indicates that satellite connectivity will be a significant development in the smartphone industry in 2023. As satellite communication is set to become commonplace in almost all devices, MediaTek is unveiling its plans for satellite connectivity, with a focus on smartphones.
MediaTek will Introduce its Satellite Feature at MWC 2023
At MWC 2023, MediaTek will announce support for the 3GPP Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) in its processors, and the technology will be included in devices that are about to be launched. MediaTek is striving to address the gaps in conventional networks, especially in emergency situations, and its technology will enable two-way messaging through satellite connectivity, similar to the initiatives of Qualcomm and Samsung. While MediaTek is starting with smartphones, it has aspirations to apply its technology to other formats, such as automobiles.
Satellite networks aim to fill gaps in mobile coverage, offering a reliable way for devices to communicate in remote locations. With satellite-enabled smartphones, consumers can stay in touch when they are hiking, driving in secluded areas, on a boat, or in other situations where there has traditionally been no connectivity; this will not only provide users with peace of mind, but also enable them to request assistance in emergency situations. Today the biggest market opportunity for 3GPP NTN technology is smartphones, although there is a growing demand for satellite connectivity in IoT applications such as agriculture, forestry, and logistics. The automotive industry will also be a major market for satellite communications technology in the coming years.
MediaTek
CAT S75 will be the First Phone to Feature the MediaTek Satellite Connectivity
Bullitt, a rugged phone manufacturer, has been confirmed by MediaTek as the first to launch a phone featuring satellite connectivity. The CAT S75 and the Motorola Defy 2 smartphones will be equipped with this technology. While the CAT S75 is already available for pre-order, the Defy 2 is expected to launch in the second quarter of this year.
Furthermore, MediaTek is developing an external device that will enable any smartphone to access the Bullitt satellite connect platform via Bluetooth connection. This device will support two-way messaging, emergency SOS, and location sharing for both Android and iOS devices. The device is set to go on sale in Q2 of this year for $99 or $149 and will include 12 months of service or 30 two-way messages every month.
