The iPhone 13 will feature low earth orbit (LEO) satellite communication connectivity to allow users to make calls and send messages in areas without 4G or 5G coverage, according to the reliable analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.

In a note to investors, seen by MacRumors, Kuo explained that the ‌iPhone 13‌ lineup will feature hardware that is able to connect to LEO satellites. If enabled with the relevant software features, this could allow ‌iPhone 13‌ users to make calls and send messages without the need for a 4G or 5G cellular connection:

We predict that iPhone 13 hardware specifications could support low earth orbit (LEO) satellite communications. If Apple enables the relevant software functions, iPhone 13 users can call and send messages via satellite when not within 4G/5G coverage. We believe that the LEO satellite communication service provider most likely to cooperate with Apple in terms of technology and service coverage is Globalstar.

Kuo believes that Apple is “optimistic” about the trend of satellite communications and has set up a specific team for research and development of technologies related to it “some time” ago.

This Post was originally published on macrumors.com