Samsung‘s upcoming Galaxy S24 series, scheduled for its global launch next month, has been expected to support satellite connectivity since the beginning of its development. Actually, the predecessor, the Galaxy S23 series was expected to boast this feature following the footsteps of Apple and Huawei.
Samsung has taken its time so far to develop and implement a two-way satellite connectivity with potentially supporting satellite calling. If materialized, it would be one step ahead of what Apple has offered starting with the iPhone 14 series. Previously emerged screenshots of One UI 6.1 also revealed an option named “Emergency texts via satellite“.
However, the units Samsung has provided to the communication companies for network testing in Korea appear to miss the feature entirely, once again. The Galaxy S24 Ultra is sent to three major communication companies for pre-launch testing – SK Telecom, KT, and LG Uplus – to conduct network linkage tests. This crucial step evaluates the smartphone’s compatibility with domestic networks and ensures that it functions seamlessly.
The Galaxy S24 series includes Gauss AI integration and camera upgrades, but Satellite Connectivity remains on hold
One standout feature of the Galaxy S24 series is the integration of Samsung’s own ChatGPT alternative, Gauss AI positioning it as an “AI phone” with generative AI capabilities throughout its UI. Additionally, Google’s AI chatbot ‘Bard’ is expected to make a partial appearance in the series.
Samsung seems to be opting for a more comprehensive and advanced two-way satellite communication in future models. This choice contrasts with Apple’s implementation. However, Huawei has already implemented two-way connectivity with the Huawei Mate 60 series. It functions through China’s “Tiantong-1” satellite mobile communication network. This device from Huawei enables users to make and receive calls via satellite. It is a feature unavailable on the latest iPhone or the upcoming Galaxy flagships.
Nonetheless, the Galaxy S24 Ultra promises substantial upgrades in other aspects. The rear camera setup, for instance, includes five vertically arranged cameras. The 50MP telephoto facilitates a 5x optical zoom function and enables 8k recording at 5x level.
2024-01-02 15:06:15