Here’s why the Samsung Galaxy S23 does not offer satellite connectivity

Last year, there were several handsets that were launched that offered up satellite connectivity, like phones from Huawei and Apple. It was heavily rumored that Samsung could include a similar feature in its Galaxy S23, but now that the phone has been launched, it looks like we did not get that feature after all.

Speaking to CNET through a translator, Samsung’s president and head of mobile experience business TM Roh confirmed that the Galaxy S23 lineup does not have satellite connectivity and explained the reasoning behind it. Basically, it seems that Samsung thinks that the technology in its current state is too limited.

This doesn’t mean that Samsung is ruling it out completely. According to Roh, Samsung is keeping its options open and when the timing is right and the tech is ready, they will include it in future devices.

“When there is the right timing, infrastructure and the technology [is] ready, then of course for Samsung Galaxy, for our mobile division, we would also actively consider adopting this feature as well.”

To be fair, satellite connectivity on phones is more for emergencies. It is meant to give users a way of calling for help if they find themselves in a situation where regular cell coverage isn’t available. There have already been a couple of instances where the iPhone 14’s satellite feature actually helped to save the lives of some users, so it is clear that there are benefits to it, so hopefully this is something we’ll see more handset makers introduce in the future.

Source: CNET