AT&T has announced plans to introduce satellite communications to the iPhone 12 and 13 models, granting users the ability to make phone calls and send text messages in areas with no cellular coverage. Unlike Apple's Emergency SOS via Satellite service, AT&T's offering promises to provide enhanced functionality to a wider range of users.

Initially introduced during the iPhone 14 keynote, Apple's Emergency SOS via Satellite service was launched in the US and Canada in November 2022. The service was extended to additional countries shortly after. While Apple initially stated that the feature would be free for the first two years after purchasing a compatible iPhone, it remains unclear what the pricing structure will be after that period.

The Emergency SOS service is limited to the iPhone 14 and newer models due to the utilization of specific frequencies supported only by a new radio chip introduced in those models. As a result, the service enables only low bandwidth communications, restricting it to short emergency text messages.

Unlike Apple's service, AT&T's initiative does not rely on specific frequencies and is compatible with any smartphone equipped with a 5G chip, including the iPhone 12 and newer models. This allows for significantly greater bandwidth, making it suitable for voice calls as well as text messages. In fact, as early as September of last year, the ability to make 5G satellite voice calls was successfully demonstrated.

According to Engadget, AT&T has recently secured a commercial contract with AST SpaceMobile, a partnership that will pave the way for the mobile carrier to offer satellite communications to its subscribers. With this upcoming option, AT&T users will be able to maintain cell service even in traditionally problematic areas, such as remote rural locations or deep inside national parks.

The service is expected to utilize five new AST satellites, which are set to be launched into orbit this summer. Further satellites will be deployed in the future to expand coverage. However, there are still several unanswered questions. The geographical coverage provided by the initial five satellites, the exact launch date, and the cost of the service are yet to be disclosed.

The introduction of AT&T's satellite communications offering, along with Apple's Emergency SOS service, is thought to provide complementary rather than competing services. AT&T is primarily targeting existing satellite phone services, while also extending support to older iPhone models, ensuring access to essential communications during emergency situations.

In addition to AT&T, T-Mobile is also working on a similar service in partnership with SpaceX's Starlink. This growing trend highlights the industry's commitment to offering reliable and comprehensive connectivity options for users, regardless of their location.

As the details continue to unfold, users eagerly await the launch of AT&T's satellite communications service, offering a potential lifeline for reliable connectivity in areas where traditional cellular coverage is scarce or non-existent.