Apple could allow audio chat with no cell or WiFi needed

Apple is working on a new technology that would enable group audio chats without the need for cell service or WiFi. This innovation would allow iPhone users equipped with headsets like AirPods to communicate directly with each other in close proximity. Unlike the current Walkie-Talkie feature on the Apple Watch, this system would eliminate the reliance on Apple's cloud servers, making communication more reliable. The technology described in a patent application would facilitate person-to-person communication directly between devices, similar to AirDrop for file sharing. By leveraging Apple's Ultra Wide Band (UWB) technology, users could locate and communicate with others nearby, enhancing experiences like meeting up at events or coordinating in emergency situations. The system would display nearby individuals on a proximity circle interface, enabling users to add members to conversations seamlessly. This development could revolutionize how people communicate in various scenarios, from social gatherings to emergency response situations, by providing a direct and efficient means of communication without traditional network dependencies.