iPhone 13 Might Let You Call or Text Without a Cell Signal | Tech360.tv
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  • Lawrence Ng
    • Aug 30, 2021
    • 2 min read

iPhone 13 Might Let You Call or Text Without a Cell Signal

Ever experienced problems contacting someone with your cellphone since you didn't have access to cellular service? Well, a rumoured iPhone 13 feature might help you avoid that trouble. Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo shared that the upcoming iPhone 13 models will have a low-earth-orbit (LEO) satellite communication mode. With this technology, iPhone 13 users can place calls or send text messages even when they are not within the coverage area of their phone carrier's 4G/5G cell towers.

Credit: Alamy

Kuo speculated that the upcoming Apple AR headset, the Apple Car and the company's other Internet-of-Things products to be released in the future might use LEO satellite communication. Aside from that, the insider said that the iPhone 13 will have a customised version of the Qualcomm X60 baseband modem chip, which will support satellite communications.


It is unclear if placing calls or delivering text messages would only work with iMessage, FaceTime or other Apple services. It's also unclear if the satellite function will be rolled out to iPhone 13 models for free or with additional charges. There hasn't been much information about whether Apple could proxy satellite communications to cell towers, either.


One thing's for sure: The rumoured feature could come in handy for residents living in areas with poor cellphone reception and hikers out in the wilderness who need to contact people. In cases of blackouts or other emergencies affecting cell towers, the function could help you check in on your loved ones and make sure that they are safe.

Credit: EverythingApplePro

Apple is expected to announce the iPhone 13 models in September 2021, which might include new features like upgraded camera systems, a faster A15 chip and refresh rate as well as a smaller display notch. The company might retain the form factor and display dimensions found in the iPhone 12 product line.

 

Written by Sophia Lopez

 

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