Apple is preparing to launch its next greatest iPhone, most likely called the iPhone 13. Reports have it that the iPhone 13 series will launch as per the usual September launch timeline.

With the world awaiting the official reveal of the iPhone 13, rumors continue flying around on what we should expect to see in the next iPhone. While it's evident that performance upgrades are a guaranteed part of the menu, the jury is out on other details. One rumored feature introduces support for satellite calls on the iPhone 13.

But will the iPhone 13 really allow you to make satellite calls? Here's what we know.

Can You Make Satellite Calls With the iPhone 13?

Rumors of the possibility of the iPhone 13 supporting satellite calls are up in the air. It follows a report from well-known analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who expects Apple to include low-earth-orbit (LEO) satellite communication mode on the iPhone 13.

With LEO, the iPhone 13 could let you make satellite calls. According to a separate Bloomberg article, Apple is reportedly working on two new emergency features that rely on satellite connectivity.

Related: 2 New Ways Your Next iPhone Could Help You Out in an Emergency

The first one, Emergency Message via Satellite, allows users to send short messages to emergency services and contacts. By extension, the feature might also include support for satellite calls in the future.

However, Bloomberg says you will only be able to use the feature when there's no cell signal available.

The second feature will allow users to report emergencies to both first responders and emergency contacts. You will provide your iPhone with different information, and it will reach out to emergency response teams directly.

For this to happen, the company must use special hardware. And the upcoming iPhone 13 will reportedly have the necessary hardware to make this happen. Although, despite the report noting that Apple plans to integrate satellite communication support on future iPhones, the iPhone 13 is not likely to be the device to introduce this functionality.

A source told Bloomberg that satellite communication features would likely not be ready, at least before next year.

In other words, it's unlikely that the iPhone 13 will let you make satellite calls.

Related: Will the iPhone 13 Get a ProMotion Display? Here's What We Know

The iPhone and Satellite Communication Support

Support for satellite communication in the iPhone might come as a surprise, but Apple has reportedly been working on satellite technology for years.

A 2019 report by Bloomberg claimed the company was working on the technology then and hoped to launch within five years. The tech giant has also been rumored to consider deploying its own satellites to make it happen.

But if Kuo's latest report is anything to go by, Apple has partnered with Globalstar Inc, an American satellite communications company, to use its spectrum instead. Apple will also have to partner with different local service providers to make this a reality.

The use of satellite technology will also have to depend on satellite availability and local laws and regulations.

While the iPhone 13 will likely not include satellite communication support, Apple already has different features baked into its smartphones for emergency scenarios.

Related: Your iPhone Could Save Your Life: iPhone Emergency Features

What Does Apple Have in Store for the iPhone 13?

The iPhone 13 launch date hasn't been officially confirmed yet. However, Apple will reportedly maintain its usual launch timelines, unlike in 2020, which saw the keynote delayed. Rumors suggest a camera, battery, and processor upgrade, minor changes in design, and a handful of other tweaks.

As usual, you'll have to wait for the company's official announcement. It's Apple's tradition to hold on to information about its upcoming products until the official keynote.