New iPhones have a Qualcomm satellite modem and new Apple radio chips

SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA, Sept. 17 (Reuters) – Apple Inc (AAPL.O) iPhone 14 models have Qualcomm Inc (QCOM.O) A chip that can talk to satellites, but contains custom-designed Apple plug-ins used in the phone’s biggest new feature, according to an analysis of the phone by iFixit and an Apple statement.

Apple released the iPhone 14 lineup on Friday. 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 have new hardware that makes emergency message service possible, which Apple plans to turn on with the upcoming software update in November. Apple did not give details of the satellite hardware.

iFixit, a company based in San Luis Obispo, California, disassembled iPhones and other consumer electronics to assess how easy they were to repair, and disassembled iPhone 14 Pro Max Prototype on Friday, revealing the Qualcomm X65 modem chip.

Qualcomm’s chip provides 5G connectivity to cellular networks but is also capable of using so-called band n53which is the frequency range used by Globalstar . satellites (GSAT.A).

Globalstar earlier this month announced a deal under which Apple will acquire up to 85% of Globalstar’s satellite network capacity to enable Apple’s new emergency messaging feature.

In a statement to Reuters on Saturday, 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.

Qualcomm did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Additional reporting by Stephen Nellis in San Luis Obispo, California; Editing by Leslie Adler

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