Lee Jong-ho, Korea’s Minister of Science and ICT, hinted at the potential commercialization of satellite communication services within the domestic industry during an interview with Yonhap News.
Forecasts suggest the establishment of a satellite communication standard next year, which could drive advancements in this sector. This has sparked speculation about Samsung’s inclusion of two-way satellite connectivity in its upcoming Galaxy S24.
Samsung introduced a 5G modem technology in February, facilitating direct communication between smartphones and satellites, particularly in remote regions. This technology will be integrated into Samsung’s Exynos modem solutions, accelerating the commercialization of 5G satellite communications and preparing for the 6G-driven era of the Internet of Everything.
Throughout the year, Samsung’s flagship smartphones with Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 exhibited the ability to connect with Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites for emergency calls and messaging. However, this feature was absent in the Galaxy S23, Galaxy Z Flip 5, and Galaxy Z Fold 5. Samsung clarified this absence was due to the early stage of the satellite communication ecosystem. Collaboration with Iridium Communications, known for its emergency communication satellite constellation, aims to strengthen this technology.
The Galaxy S24 series, including the Galaxy S24, Galaxy S24+, and Galaxy S24 Ultra, is anticipated to debut in the first quarter of the upcoming year. It is expected to offer processor options such as the Exynos 2400 chip and Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor.
If the Galaxy S24 features two-way satellite connectivity, even the Exynos 2400 variant must possess the necessary hardware capabilities. Samsung has developed this connectivity for its Exynos chips, potentially making it a feature in the Galaxy S24. Presently, only HUAWEI phones among Android devices offer this satellite connectivity capability.
