The staff at iFixit has been very busy lately. Since they are researching the most recent iPhone 14 series, they have discovered most of the hardware information. Apple typically adheres to the “marketing” protocol. It never makes hardware specifications available, such as the amount of RAM or battery life. Typically, it states something like “The new iPhone is speedier” or “Battery will last a full day.” Apple revealed a new SOS emergency system this year that utilizes satellite communication. Therefore, you can still send emergency messages in dire circumstances where there is no cellular network. Naturally, Apple didn’t go into depth about the system’s technology. However, iFixit has made these hardware specifics public.
“iPhone 14 has new software designed exclusively by Apple and bespoke radio frequency components,” claims Apple. Together, they allow the latest iPhone 14 models to use Emergency SOS via Satellite. The iFixit staff is looking into the hardware. It is noteworthy that the complete dismantling is still happening. Therefore, this initial inspection is still lacking some information. But we already have a clear image of the magic working in this system.
Surprisingly, the system makes use of the Snapdragon X65 model from Qualcomm. This is reportedly caused by the modem’s compatibility for the band n53. Since 2020, the band has been 3GPP-approved. Only satellite-based IoT services are utilized. On the modem, Globalstar provides support for that frequency. For those who don’t know, Apple has access to up to 85% of the Globalstar bandwidth. The new Emergency system will be supported by all that bandwidth.
It’s important to note that the iPhone 14 series still lacks the feature. Apple did disclose it, but it won’t be available until a later software update. Some businesses engage in that behaviour frequently these days. Cupertino claims that the emergency SOS function will go into effect in November of this year. A beta test will be conducted initially in the US and Canada. Owners outside of North America can also use it. The service area will reportedly be above 62o latitude. Alaska and Canada’s northernmost regions are included in this. In certain locations, the feature is really helpful.
