Next-Gen Connectivity: How Huawei and Apple are Revolutionizing Satellite Communication for Smartphones

The race for global connectivity is rapidly shifting from terrestrial towers to the stars. Industry leaders Huawei and Apple are currently intensifying their efforts to enhance satellite communication features on their flagship devices. While one is focusing on bringing direct 5G satellite internet to the mass market, the other is preparing to deploy low-orbit satellite technology to minimize latency and maximize coverage.

According to recent insights from tech insiders, satellite communication is poised to be one of the most significant highlights in the mobile industry this year. Both Apple and Huawei are moving beyond simple emergency messaging toward more robust, data-heavy satellite interactions.

Apple’s Vision: Direct 5G Satellite Internet for iPhones

Apple is making significant strides by planning to support NR-NTN (New Radio Non-Terrestrial Networks) in its upcoming C2 baseband modems. This technology represents a paradigm shift, as it allows a standard smartphone modem to support 5G standards for direct communication with satellites. This means that users in remote areas could potentially access the internet directly via satellite without needing specialized bulky equipment.

Reports suggest that this next-generation C2 modem will be a centerpiece for the iPhone 18 Pro series. By leveraging NR-NTN, Apple aims to provide a more stable and faster connection, expanding the utility of the iPhone in regions where traditional cellular infrastructure is non-existent.

Huawei’s Low-Orbit Strategy: A Leap Towards 6G

On the other side of the globe, Huawei is preparing to unveil its low-orbit satellite communication technology. While the company’s previous models, like the Mate 60 Pro, utilized high-orbit satellites, the move to low-orbit is a strategic upgrade. Low-orbit satellites sit much closer to Earth, which significantly reduces signal delay (latency) and improves data transmission speeds.

Huawei has been conducting internal tests throughout the past year and is expected to begin a public beta phase by the end of 2025. This technology is often viewed as a precursor to 6G air-ground integrated networks, ensuring high coverage density and reliable voice calls even in the most challenging environments.

The company is reportedly collaborating with China Star Network to facilitate this low-orbit satellite internet. This partnership aims to overcome the limitations of current high-orbit systems, which sometimes struggle with messaging and calling consistency due to the vast distances the signals must travel.

As both companies push the envelope, the beneficiary is the consumer. Whether it is through Apple’s 5G NR-NTN integration or Huawei’s low-orbit 6G-ready infrastructure, the goal is clear: a world where "no signal" becomes a thing of the past.

What is NR-NTN technology in smartphones?

NR-NTN stands for New Radio Non-Terrestrial Networks. It is a communication standard that allows a smartphone's 5G modem to connect directly to satellites instead of traditional ground-based towers, enabling internet access in remote locations.

How does low-orbit satellite communication differ from high-orbit?

Low-orbit satellites are positioned much closer to Earth than high-orbit ones. This proximity results in much lower latency (lag), better signal strength, and higher data speeds, making it ideal for voice calls and real-time data usage.

Which devices will first feature these new satellite enhancements?

For Apple, the technology is expected to debut with the iPhone 18 Pro series. Huawei is likely to introduce its low-orbit features in its upcoming flagship models released later this year or early 2026.

Will these satellite features work in cities?

While primarily designed for remote and underserved areas, these technologies act as a fail-safe. In cities, your phone will still prefer traditional 5G towers, but the satellite link serves as a critical back-up during network outages or emergencies.

🔎 The evolution of satellite communication marks a turning point in mobile history, transforming the smartphone from a local device into a truly global communicator. As Huawei and Apple continue to innovate, the integration of satellite and terrestrial networks will pave the way for a more connected and resilient digital future for everyone, everywhere.