Apple Won't Support iPhone 13 Satellite Network Everywhere: What About India?

Last week, the internet went bonkers when leaks by Ming-Chi Kuo revealed that iPhone 13 would support satellite communications. However, now, Bloomberg¡¯s Mark Gurman offers more details about how we¡¯re going to see this feature in play.

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According to Gurman, who revealed this in his Power On newsletter, the feature will only work in areas where there is no cellular coverage and that too in select markets around the world. Apple plans to eventually deploy its own array of satellites to ¡°beam data to devices¡±, but there is still some time for that plan to materialize.

He responds to people¡¯s questions about whether this feature would allow people to make phone calls for free without relying on cellular data plans or in areas when they have poor cellular reception, stating, ¡°Some have asked me if these new features mean that the iPhone can be used as a satellite phone and have the ability to make calls anywhere in the world without cellular coverage. The answer is a big no. That¡¯s not happening now, next year, or anytime in the near future.¡±

According to Gurman, the feature aboard the iPhone 13 is based on the hardware that¡¯s not ready yet to turn it into a complete satellite phone. Moreover, enabling a feature like this could upset several carriers around the world that Apple relies on, to sell its devices.

Gurman highlights that Apple could integrate emergency satellite messaging into the iMessage app and allow users to contact in emergency situations without a cellular signal. The satellite messages will highlight as a grey message bubble, along with the blue and green that we¡¯re familiar with.

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Will we get this feature in India?

India might not be one of the countries on the list to get the satellite phone capability if it does possess it, because the Indian Department of Telecommunications doesn¡¯t allow the use of satellite phones in the nation. Ever since the terrorist attacks that occurred on 26/11 in Mumbai, satellite phones have been banned by the law.

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Unauthorized possession of a satellite phone is regarded as a state security matter and can result in an extensive investigation, along with a fine of Rs 1,000 and/or imprisonment for three years.

The only way one can use satellite phones across the country is by special permission or NOC from the Department of Telecommunications, Government of India or as provisioned by BSNL in accordance with a license granted to BSNL for provision and operation of satellite-based service using Gateway installed in India.

What do you think of the upcoming iPhone 13's rumoured satellite communication feature? Let us know in the comments below, and keep reading Indiatimes.com for the latest on iPhone 13, technology and science news.