Analyst: iPhone 13 will have LEO satellite communication connectivity

In a note to clients — as noted by MacRumors — analyst Ming-Chi Kuo says the iPhone 13 will feature low earth orbit (LEO) satellite communication connectivity. This will allow users to make calls and send messages in areas without 4G or 5G coverage.

He says the ‌upcoming smartphone update will likely pack a customized Qualcomm X60 baseband chip that supports satellite communications. Qualcomm announced its upcoming X65 chip would support Globalstar’s Band n53 tech. If Kuo is right (and he has a great track record), the iPhone 13 will be the first mainstream smartphone model to add this functionality.

Globalstar is a provider of customizable Satellite IoT Solutions for customers around the world in industries such as oil and gas, transportation, emergency management, government, maritime and outdoor recreation. The company operates a low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellation for satellite phone and low-speed data communications.

Other rumors/speculation about the iPhone 13:

° It will cost 3-5% more than the iPhone 12.

° It will have Face ID hardware that will work with masks and foggy glasses.

° At least some models will support ProRes for videos and Portrait Mode for video.

° It will add advanced photo filters.

° It will pack an A15 processor.

° It will have an “always-on” display like the Apple Watch.

° It will adopt the improved Wi-Fi 6E protocol.

° High-end models of the upcoming iPhone 13 lineup will sport an upgraded ultra-wide camera with autofocus.

° Some, perhaps all, models will have LiDAR sensors.