The Huawei Watch Ultimate and Apple's upcoming satellite texting feature on the Apple Watch Ultra both offer satellite communication capabilities, but they differ in several key aspects:
Huawei Watch Ultimate
- Technology and Functionality: The Huawei Watch Ultimate is the first smartwatch to support two-way Beidou satellite SMS. This feature allows users to send and receive messages via satellite when there is no cellular coverage. The watch is equipped with a "Beidou Key" that can activate the satellite messaging function quickly, making it useful in emergency situations[9][11].
- Technical Achievements: Huawei achieved this capability by using miniaturized RF modules, a suspended antenna design, and innovative nano-forming integration technology. Additionally, the watch includes a battery intelligent heating solution to maintain performance in low-temperature environments[9].
- Availability: Currently, the satellite SMS feature is primarily marketed in China, with no clear roadmap for global availability[11].
Apple's Upcoming Satellite Texting Feature
- Technology and Functionality: Apple plans to introduce satellite texting on the 2025 Apple Watch Ultra, leveraging Globalstar Inc.'s satellite network. This feature will allow users to send text messages via satellite when they lack cellular or Wi-Fi connectivity[5][8].
- Integration and User Experience: Unlike Huawei's watch, Apple's feature is part of a broader ecosystem that includes iPhones and iPads. It integrates seamlessly with iMessage, allowing users to send messages to anyone, not just emergency contacts. The feature is designed to be user-friendly, requiring minimal setup and automatically switching to satellite connectivity when needed[10].
- Availability and Cost: Apple's satellite messaging service is currently available on iPhones in certain regions and is free for two years after activation. The expansion to the Apple Watch Ultra aims to enhance the user experience for outdoor enthusiasts who may not always carry their iPhone[5][10].
Comparison
- Satellite Network: Huawei uses the Beidou satellite system, primarily available in China, while Apple partners with Globalstar, offering broader international coverage.
- Device Integration: Apple's feature is deeply integrated into its ecosystem, allowing seamless communication across devices. Huawei's watch is more standalone in its satellite functionality.
- Global Availability: Apple's satellite features are available in more regions than Huawei's, which is currently focused on the Chinese market.
In summary, both devices offer innovative satellite communication solutions, but Apple's approach is more integrated into its ecosystem and available across more devices and regions. Huawei's focus on the Beidou system and its marketing primarily in China limits its global reach compared to Apple's broader international coverage.
Citations:
[1] https://technode.com/2023/03/15/huawei-to-launch-satellite-connected-smartwatch/
[2] https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/texting-from-space-even-more-smartphones-might-get-satellite-connectivity-in-2025/
[3] https://www.huaweicentral.com/apple-competes-with-huawei-for-satellite-communication-the-feature-is-free-for-two-years/
[4] https://celest-watches.com/tag/huawei-watch-ultimate/
[5] https://www.patentlyapple.com/2024/12/apple-aims-to-bring-the-ability-to-send-text-messages-via-satellite-on-their-2025-apple-watch-ultra.html
[6] https://techwireasia.com/2022/09/iphone-vs-huawei-in-launching-phones-that-supports-satellite-connectivity/
[7] https://www.huaweicentral.com/huawei-certifies-watch-ultimate-2-with-uwb-and-satellite-sms-support/
[8] https://fortune.com/2024/12/10/apples-new-ultra-smartwatch-send-texts-via-satellite/
[9] https://www.vopmart.com/blog/post/Huawei-Watch-Ultimate-Review
[10] https://support.apple.com/guide/iphone/text-via-satellite-iphb9262f4dd/ios
[11] https://www.phonearena.com/reviews/huawei-watch-ultimate-review_id5760