Huawei has unveiled a major upgrade in wearable tech: the Huawei Watch Ultimate 2, claimed to be the first smartwatch in the world that supports satellite voice messaging.
What’s New: Voice Messaging via Satellite
- Earlier, Huawei Watch Ultimate supported two-way Beidou satellite SMS/text messaging for users in areas without mobile network coverage.
- With the Ultimate 2, Huawei now introduces voice messaging over satellite. That means instead of typing or sending text, users will be able to send voice messages via the Beidou satellite network when conventional connectivity is unavailable.
- The feature was showcased at the 4th Beidou Large-Scale Application International Summit. Huawei and Beidou partners revealed this capability, highlighting its usefulness in remote or emergency situations.
Technical & Design Details
- To support voice over satellite in a wearable device, Huawei has made several technical advancements, including a new AI voice codec that compresses voice data heavily while preserving intelligibility.
- There is also a redesigned antenna system, optimized for satellite signal transmission in the compact structure of a smartwatch. The terminal antenna setup, signal modulation, and frame/antenna coupling have been optimized.
- Beyond satellite voice messaging, the Ultimate 2 retains or improves other features like diving-grade waterproofing, SOS capabilities, etc.
Why It Matters
- Safety & Connectivity in Remote Areas: For hikers, mountaineers, sailors, or anyone travelling off-grid, being able to send voice messages can be faster and more intuitive than typing texts.
- First of Its Kind in a Wearable: While some phones and devices have satellite messaging (text/SMS), this is reportedly the first mass-market smartwatch to support voice messaging via satellite.
- Competition Push: This moves the wearable sector further, putting pressure on other makers (e.g. Apple, Samsung, Garmin, etc.) to add similar features. It also raises the bar for satellite integration in small form-factor devices.
Limitations & What to Watch Out For
- Availability & Region Restrictions: So far, the voice messaging via Beidou seems to be focused on China first. International availability, pricing, and regulation may differ. Huawei Central
- Signal & Latency: Satellite communication tends to have higher latency and depends on line-of-sight with satellites. Voice messaging may require more robust signal and more energy than text messaging.
- Battery Drain: Using satellite, especially for voice data, will likely consume more power than LTE or Bluetooth. How well the watch balances satellite voice usage with battery life will be key.
- Regulatory / Licensing Issues: Satellite communication often involves spectrum/regulatory approvals. Regions outside China may need different approvals or infrastructure.
Conclusion
Huawei’s Watch Ultimate 2 represents a notable leap forward by enabling satellite voice messaging in a wearable. For users who often find themselves in areas without cellular or internet connectivity, this can be a game changer. The feature bridges gaps in communication where conventional networks fail, though practical performance, battery impact, and global rollout remain to be seen.
