Kuo: Apple Has Completed Hardware Tests for iPhone 14 Satellite Connectivity, But Launch Depends on Partners

[Izauze]

I thought I was continuing on without you?? I guess you couldn't resist. 😜

Casual users don't buy PLBs. They are expensive and the yearly service cost is significant enough to deter most, if not all, causal buyers. People aren't buying PLBs for day hikes or car camping or traveling through areas with spotty cell service. I mean, sure, there might be a few people who are so totally wracked with fear (we see more and more of that these days) that they splurge on a PLB for a day hike, but I'd argue that money would be waaaaay better spent on a therapist.

I'm not knocking the satellite feature. It's a welcome one. But (almost) no one who is in the market for a PLB should think the iPhone is "good enough". If you truly need a PLB, you need a device that is rugged, durable, and doesn't have a screen that can shatter and render it inoperable. You need a device with user replaceable batteries that can handle cold weather and high altitude, that floats when it lands in the water, etc. This is common sense.

I have no argument with your assertion that the satellite feature will "give access to useful services to MANY more people." Satellite connectivity will be great in emergencies, during natural disasters, etc. I'm simply arguing that if you *truly* need a PLB, you shouldn't be an idiot and think the iPhone has you covered. There are too many potential points of failure for it to be considered a suitable replacement for a PLB.

I said I wasn’t interested in personal fighting. I’m still happy to participate in the the topic of discussion. The whole scoring internet points against strangers thing just doesn’t hold any interest for me.

Sounds like we agree on many things, so shouldn’t be a problem.

 

[Smith288]

You've used a cell phone before, right? If so, you know how dumb "it's just a cell phone tower... but in space... of course it works" sounds.

I don't care how it sounds (to you). That's how it will look to the phone. The phone isn't going to have a freaking go-go gadget dish that will pop out. It will be able to determine a certain RF band being sent down to earth rather than out like a cell tower.

 

[NT1440]

You're just uninformed and not up to speed on previous reports on this. Nothing more. You coming up with your fantasy version doesn't change anything. This is what the internet has taught people, that their made up opinions are equally as valid as actual information.

Got any follow up now?