Apple iPhone 13 to feature satellite connectivity

San Francisco - This could allow iPhone 13 users to make calls and send messages without the need for a 4G or 5G cellular connection.

By IANS

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iPhone 13 is expected to use a customised version of the Qualcomm X60 baseband modem chip. This chip will support communications over satellite. — File photo
iPhone 13 is expected to use a customised version of the Qualcomm X60 baseband modem chip. This chip will support communications over satellite. — File photo

Published: Mon 30 Aug 2021, 3:33 PM

Last updated: Mon 30 Aug 2021, 7:24 PM

Apple is reportedly planning to launch iPhone 13 lineup next month and now a new report has claimed that the upcoming models will feature low earth orbit (LEO) satellite communication connectivity to allow users to make calls and send messages in areas without cellular coverage.

According to the reliable Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the upcoming lineup will feature hardware that is able to connect to LEO satellites. This could allow iPhone 13 users to make calls and send messages without the need for a 4G or 5G cellular connection, reports MacRumors.


iPhone 13 is expected to use a customised version of the Qualcomm X60 baseband modem chip. This chip will support communications over satellite.

Kuo also noted that the iPhone 13 will use a customised version of the Qualcomm X60 baseband modem chip. This chip will support communications over satellite.


A recent survey has revealed that many iPhone users want the upcoming iPhone model to be named ‘iPhone 2021’ instead of ‘iPhone 13’.

According to the survey, a total of 74 per cent of respondents said they hoped “iPhone 13” will be named something else. The respondents also voted for the best potential name, with “iPhone (2021)” taking the top spot with 38 per cent of the vote.

Around 26 per cent thought that the “iPhone 13” was the best name and only 13 per cent said that they would like to see the devices called the “iPhone 12S”.

Apple Watch Series 7

Apple is expected to launch a new Watch Series 7 next month in larger 41mm as well as 45mm case sizes and now a new report has claimed that the upcoming Watch may feature new faces to take advantage of the increased screen size.

The new Apple Watch faces will be exclusive to the Series 7 and will likely not be made available through a software update for older models, reports MacRumors.

Upcoming Apple Watch is expected to feature smaller bezels and a flat-edged design, which would naturally allow for a slightly bigger surface area for the display.

The Apple Watch Series 7 may feature a smaller “S7” chip, potentially providing more space for a larger battery or other components.

This new chipset will be built from Taiwanese supplier ASE Technology. On its website, ASE Technology confirmed that its double sided technology will allow for module miniaturization.

Based on previous reports, Apple Watch Series 7 models are expected to debut later this year, with Mark Gurman claiming that Apple has tested thinner display bezels.

The Cupertino-based tech giant is also planning to introduce a new lamination technique that reduces the gap between the display and the cover glass, due to this the overall chassis of the Watch may be slightly thicker. — IANS


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