Smartphone technology continues to develop and makes our lives easier with new products. A clear example of this is the satellite link function. This technology, which was first introduced in the iPhone 14, is now used in models of various brands, including Samsung and Oppo. Another manufacturer that wants to stand out with its satellite connection feature is Huawei. There were also statements suggesting that the company not only wanted to profit from the technology, but also aimed to prevent others from doing so. However, China Telecom announced that this was not true.

China Telecom launches mobile direct satellite service that allows users to add satellites to existing cellular plans

China Telecom confirmed that Huawei does not have exclusive rights over satellite communications technology. The company also plans to partner with more phone manufacturers to help bring the technology to market. In September 2023, Huawei launched the Mate 60 Pro smartphone, the first smartphone to support satellite communications. The phone allows users to make calls and send text messages even in places where there is no cellular coverage.

Some in the industry have suggested that Huawei has exclusive rights to satellite technology, which would delay other phone makers from introducing similar features. However, a China Telecom representative told Sina Technology that Huawei does not have exclusive rights to this technology. Implementing satellite communications on a smartphone requires significant technical expertise and investment, covering areas such as chips, protocols and terminals, the spokesperson said.

“Currently, only Huawei Mate 60 Pro supports satellite communications,” the spokesperson said. “We plan to work with more phone manufacturers to make this technology available to everyone.” Huawei Mate 60 Pro is a high-end phone with a relatively high price tag. China Telecom’s goal is to enable people to use satellite communications with more affordable phones.

Besides collaborating with phone manufacturers, China Telecom has also launched its own satellite service called “Mobile Direct Satellite”. This service allows users to add satellites to their existing cellular plans. The service is available to all China Telecom customers and does not require users to switch to a new SIM card or phone number.

China Telecom will launch its own Tianyi Bodun S9 satellite phone

China Telecom says its direct mobile satellite service uses the company’s dedicated operation on the Tiantong-1 satellite group. The service covers the entire territory and territorial waters of China. China Telecom also plans to launch its own Tianyi Bodun S9 satellite phone. The phone will be available on November 10. It has a built-in satellite dish and can be used to make and receive calls, as well as send and receive text messages.