On Thursday, Qualcomm Inc announced a partnership with Iridium Communications Inc to bring satellite-based messaging to premium smartphones running on the Android operating system. This partnership will allow Qualcomm to provide a reliable messaging service to users in remote or disaster-stricken areas where terrestrial communication infrastructure may be compromised.
Iridium is a global leader in satellite-based communication, with a network of 66 low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites that provide coverage to the entire planet. The company’s satellite constellation is designed to provide reliable, secure, and fast communication for a variety of industries, including aviation, maritime, and government.
Qualcomm is a leading provider of wireless technology and services, with a strong presence in the smartphone market. The company’s chips and modems are used in a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops. By partnering with Iridium, Qualcomm will be able to offer a messaging service that is not reliant on terrestrial infrastructure, making it ideal for users in remote or disaster-stricken areas.
The satellite-based messaging service will be available on premium Android smartphones that are equipped with Qualcomm’s chips and modems. Users will be able to send and receive text messages and other forms of communication via the Iridium network, even in areas where there is no cellular or internet coverage.
The partnership between Qualcomm and Iridium is a natural fit, as both companies have a strong focus on providing reliable communication solutions. Qualcomm’s expertise in wireless technology and Iridium’s expertise in satellite communication will help to bring a new level of connectivity to users in remote areas.
In addition to providing messaging services, Qualcomm and Iridium will also work together to develop new applications and services that utilize the satellite network. These could include IoT (Internet of Things) applications, such as remote monitoring and control of assets, as well as location-based services and emergency response systems.
The satellite-based messaging service is expected to be available in the coming months, and will be offered as an optional add-on for users of premium Android smartphones. It is not yet clear how much the service will cost, but it is likely to be priced competitively with other messaging services.
Overall, the partnership between Qualcomm and Iridium is an exciting development for users in remote or disaster-stricken areas, as it will provide a reliable messaging service that is not reliant on terrestrial infrastructure. It will also pave the way for the development of new applications and services that utilize the satellite network, bringing a new level of connectivity to users around the world.