Adaptation to New Technology for Communication in the Outdoors – Caution
The telecommunications industry in New Zealand is experiencing a race among cellular companies to achieve 100% coverage across the country. Is it even possible? This push for comprehensive coverage is driven by the increasing demand for reliable and uninterrupted communication services. However, achieving full coverage poses unique challenges, particularly in rural areas, where limited SMS coverage is a concern. While full bandwidth broadband remains a distant goal, advancements in communication technology, such as the new alert system in the iPhone 14, bring both opportunities and considerations for users. This report explores the challenges surrounding 100% coverage in rural NZ and discusses the implications of relying on battery-dependent alert systems like the iPhone 14 compared to Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs) and Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs).
- Challenges of 100% Coverage in Rural NZ: Geographic Barriers: Rural areas in New Zealand often feature rugged terrains and remote locations, making it challenging to establish and maintain cellular infrastructure. The presence of mountains, valleys, and dense forests can create dead zones where traditional cellular signals struggle to reach.
- Population Density: Rural areas have lower population densities compared to urban centers, making it economically challenging for cellular companies to invest in infrastructure and provide cost-effective coverage. The cost of deploying and maintaining cellular towers in sparsely populated regions can be prohibitive.
- Technical Limitations: In remote regions, the availability of reliable power sources and the lack of existing infrastructure pose technical limitations. Building new infrastructure or extending the reach of existing networks to remote areas requires significant investment in power supply and backhaul connectivity.
iPhone 14 Alert System in NZ:
The iPhone 14 introduces a new alert system designed to enhance emergency communication capabilities. While specific details about the iPhone 14’s alert system in NZ may not be available, it is important to consider its implications, especially in areas with limited cellular coverage.
- Battery Reliance: The effectiveness of the iPhone 14 alert system heavily relies on the device’s battery life. In situations where prolonged emergencies or outdoor activities are involved, there is a risk of battery depletion, potentially rendering the alert system unusable.
- PLB Recommendation: Despite advancements in mobile technology, the Youth Search and Rescue (YSAR) recommends carrying a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) alongside relying on the iPhone 14 alert system. PLBs provide a dedicated emergency signaling device with long battery life and are specifically designed for outdoor and remote environments.
Partnerships for Improved Coverage:
Cellular companies in New Zealand are partnering with global satellite providers to expand coverage and address the limitations of traditional cellular networks.
- One NZ and Starlink: One NZ has partnered with SpaceX’s Starlink to deliver mobile coverage across the country, leveraging satellite technology to eliminate cellular dead zones. This collaboration positions One NZ as the first Southern Hemisphere company to offer satellite-to-cell phone coverage.
- Spark and Lynk Global: Spark has partnered with Lynk Global to provide satellite-to-mobile services, extending coverage in areas where traditional infrastructure is lacking. By leveraging Lynk Global’s satellite network, Spark aims to offer comprehensive mobile coverage to its customers.
The race for 100% cellular coverage in New Zealand presents both opportunities and challenges. While partnerships with satellite companies, such as SpaceX and Lynk Global, hold promise for eliminating dead zones, achieving full bandwidth broadband coverage remains a long-term goal. In the context of emerging technologies like the iPhone 14’s alert system, caution must be exercised due to battery reliance and the recommendation to carry dedicated emergency signaling devices like PLBs. As the communication landscape rapidly evolves, continuous efforts are needed to bridge the digital divide and ensure reliable connectivity for all New Zealanders, especially in rural areas.
Be Safe Out There – Enjoy the Outdoors
