Sources have suggested that Qualcomm will be releasing “Snapdragon Satellite” for smartphones in January. Samsung on the other hand will be introducing its version of the technology for Exynos chips. This clearly shows how satellite connection will make huge events in the smartphone business in 2023. Given that satellite communication will soon be present in almost all devices, MediaTek is outlining its plans for it.
MediaTek will Introduce its Satellite Feature at MWC 2023 
With a focus on smartphones, MediaTek will announce support for the 3GPP Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) in its processors at MWC 2023. In addition to saying that it will eventually support 5G New Radio NTN (NR-NTN), MediaTek also says that its technology will be included in devices that are about to go on sale.
The chip maker is putting in efforts to fill the gaps left by conventional networks. This particularly has to do with emergency scenarios. And MediaTek’s technology will enable two-way messaging through satellite connectivity, similar to initiatives by Qualcomm and Samsung. Although MediaTek is beginning with smartphones, it hopes to eventually apply its technology to other form factors, such as automobiles.
In a statement, MediaTek said…
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Satellite networks aim to fill gaps in mobile coverage, offering a reliable way for devices to communicate in remote locations. With satellite-enabled smartphones, consumers can stay in touch when they are hiking, driving in secluded areas, on a boat, or in other situations where there has traditionally been no connectivity; this will not only provide users with peace of mind, but also enable them to request assistance in emergency situations. Today the biggest market opportunity for 3GPP NTN technology is smartphones, although there is a growing demand for satellite connectivity in IoT applications such as agriculture, forestry, and logistics. The automotive industry will also be a major market for satellite communications technology in the coming years.
CAT S75 will be the First Phone to Feature the MediaTek Satellite Connectivity 
MediaTek also confirmed that rugged phone maker Bullitt will be the first to launch a phone with its satellite connectivity. The company will feature the satellite connectivity in the CAT S75 and the Motorola Defy 2 smartphone. While the CAT S75 is already available for pre-order, the Defy 2 on the other hand will launch in the second quarter of this year.
MediaTek is also working on an external device that can provide satellite connectivity to any smartphone. This device allows both Android and iOS devices to have access to Bullitt satellite connect platform via Bluetooth connection. The device also supports two-way messaging, emergency SOS and location sharing. This device is said to go on sale from Q2 of this year with a price tag of $99 or $149. It will also come with 12 months of service or 30 two-way messages every month.
