According to an inspection of the phone by iFixit and a statement from Apple, the iPhone 14 models include a Qualcomm chip that can communicate with satellites, but they also have additional specially-designed Apple components utilized in the phone's most innovative feature.
On Friday, Apple unveiled its iPhone 14 series. When there is no WiFi or cellular data connection, one of the significant new capabilities allows users to send emergency messages by connecting to satellites.
The emergency message service, which Apple expects to activate with a software update arriving in November, is made feasible by new hardware found in the iPhone 14 models, according to a statement made by Apple earlier this month. Regarding the gear tailored to satellites, Apple withheld information.
iPhone 14 Pro Max model was disassembled by iFixit, a San Luis Obispo, California-based company that tests the repairability of consumer devices such as iPhones. The dismantling revealed a Qualcomm X65 modem chip.
The Qualcomm X65 modem supports "band n53," which allows the iPhone to communicate with satellites in the sky, in addition to 5G cellular connectivity for phone calls and data. Particularly, Apple has worked with Globalstar's satellite infrastructure.
When a user places an Emergency SOS call but is unable to reach a cell tower, Emergency SOS via Satellite will be made available. The phone will then give you the choice to connect to a satellite and send a quick text message in place of that. For the feature to function, users will require a clear view of the sky; iOS will instruct users to point their devices to align with the overhead satellites.
When text-based channels are available for local emergency services, the iPhone will send these messages immediately through the satellite link. If you don't call the emergency services, Apple relay centers will call them on your behalf.
"iPhone 14 includes custom radio frequency components, and new software designed entirely by Apple, that together enables Emergency SOS via satellite on new iPhone 14 models," Apple said in a statement.
From November on, this service will be provided without charge for two years. After the trial time expires, Apple has not provided information about the cost of the satellite service. The United States and Canada are the only countries that are initially available.
It is widely known that Apple is developing an internal 5G modem to replace all Qualcomm components in the iPhone. The company is primarily focused on improving power efficiency (longer battery life) and lowering royalty payments to increase unit cost margins for each iPhone sold.
