The Apple iPhone 13 may offer game-changing satellite communications

With the release of iPhone 13 (or perhaps the 12S – it still isn't clear) likely to be just weeks away if Apple sticks to its usual September slot, we thought we'd heard everything possible about the hotly awaited phone. But while most of the rumours have involved largely predictable (though welcome) upgrades such as new cameras and colour options, the latest suggestion is that the phone could take a massive leap in terms of connectivity.

In what sounds like the most far-out rumour yet, it's been suggested that the next iPhone will feature hardware to allow the kind of satellite communication functionality currently only available on specialist satellite phones. That's something that could be a lifesaver if you find yourself without 4G or 5G coverage, but the question is how many of us will actually get to use it (see our roundup of the best Apple deals available now for the best prices on Apple's current range).

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