CALIFORNIA, Sept. 18 (BNA): Apple’s iPhone 14 models have a Qualcomm Inc chip that can talk to satellites, but they have specially designed additional Apple components that are used in the phone’s biggest new feature, according to an analysis of the phone by iFixit and an Apple statement.
One of the main new features is the ability to connect to satellites to send emergency messages when there is no WiFi or cellular data connection.
Apple said earlier this month that iPhone 14 models contain new hardware that makes emergency message service possible, which Apple plans to turn on with the upcoming software update in November, Reuters reported.
Apple did not give details of the satellite hardware.
iFixit, a San Luis Obispo, California-based company that disassembles iPhones and other consumer electronics to assess how easy they are to repair, disassembled its iPhone 14 Pro Max Friday, revealing a Qualcomm X65 modem chip.
Qualcomm’s chip provides 5G connectivity for cellular networks but is also capable of using the n53 band, the frequency band used by Globalstar’s satellites.
Globalstar earlier this month announced a deal, under which Apple will take up to 85% of Globalstar’s satellite network capacity to enable Apple’s new emergency messaging feature.
Apple said there is additional special hardware and software in the iPhone 14 for the new messaging feature.
“iPhone 14 includes dedicated radio frequency components, and new software designed entirely by Apple, which together enable emergency SOS over satellite on new iPhone 14 models,” Apple said in a statement.
ZHB