Qualcomm disclosed its partnership with Iridium for the Qualcomm Snapdragon Satellite service, which would provide Android handsets new functionality, at the ongoing CES exhibition.
Similar to Apple’s Emergency SOS through Satellite features, which are included in the new iPhone 14 models, this partnership will support satellite communication during crises.
Smartphones with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, the Snapdragon X70 modem system, and additional radios will support the Snapdragon Satellite function.
Currently, Qualcomm is only giving this new feature support to its flagship processor and modem, Snapdragon Satellite is probably only going to be available in high-end flagship devices. The other processor series might have to wait for now.
The capability will first be restricted to usage in emergency scenarios, enabling users to request assistance even in a remote location without mobile connection. When a user transmits an SOS.
The similar service which Apple is already providing has made some buzz in recent months. Many reports have cited that, “how this feature has helped in rescuing people trapped in no tough-places”.
In December 2022, the SOS feature saved the life of a guy who was stuck near Nimiuk Point, Alaska.
The Alaska State Troopers received word on December 1, 2022, at around 2:00 am, that an adult traveling by snowmachine from Noorvik to Kotzebue had activated an Apple iPhone Emergency SOS through satellite on his iPhone after getting lost. Later he was rescued successfully.