Reports have emerged that Samsung is developing an AI-powered Exynos chipset with satellite communications capability for SpaceX. The new development follows Samsung’s securing of a chip deal for Tesla cars. The new modem chip could be used to power SpaceX’s satellites for connectivity on smartphones.
To put this into context, SpaceX, an Elon Musk-headed company, operates satellite communications. It has thousands of low-earth-orbit (LEO) satellites that unlock satellite broadband for users on the ground. A deal with Samsung could enhance and diversify the connectivity further in the coming days.
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SpaceX could use Samsung’s Exynos silicon for 6G NTN network
Samsung seeks to provide SpaceX with the new Exynos modems for the former’s 6G non-terrestrial network (NTN). The satellite service provider wants to go global with new capabilities. It seeks to deliver more reliable and low-latency connectivity for self-driving vehicles and robots.
It’s been said that Samsung is designing an Exynos modem with 55 times faster beam identification and 42 times faster channel prediction than the existing chips used by SpaceX. In real-life situations, these specs will deliver faster satellite communications. It can project satellite path and improve signals for end devices in real-time, which would mean faster data rates. Samsung execs are said to have discussed the technological details of this new product with SpaceX officials.
Traditional chipsets are limited in tracking moving satellites and aligning their beam to provide consistent signals. But with an AI-powered chipset, the prediction of satellite trajectories will be easier, and devices will get improved satellite communication performance.
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Going forward, Samsung wants to enable direct connection between LEO satellites and devices without the need for ground-based hardware.
A deal with the South Korean vendor will further enhance SpaceX’s ambitions in the satellite communication wing and eventually, global wireless communications.