Apple is preparing to expand the satellite connectivity feature offered on its iPhone models. The company plans to go far beyond the current “Emergency SOS” feature and aims to offer at least five new satellite-based features to users in the near future. This claim was shared by Bloomberg writer Mark Gurman, a reliable source in the tech world. According to Gurman, Apple is conducting extensive work to integrate satellite technology into the phones’ core functions.
Satellite era expands on iPhones: Here’s Apple’s new plan
Among the planned innovations is the Apple Maps app. This new feature will provide navigation support via satellite even when Wi-Fi or cellular data is unavailable or weak. Another significant development will be in the Messages app. Users will be able to send rich content via satellite, including photos, emojis, and Tapbacks, even when they are outside of cellular coverage.
Apple is also working on hardware improvements. The company aims to make this connectivity, which normally requires direct line of sight to satellites, available even indoors. Next-generation iPhones are also expected to support 5G Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) technology. This technology will allow cell towers to use satellites to extend their coverage. Finally, Apple plans to offer a dedicated API (Application Programming Interface) so third-party app developers can integrate satellite connectivity into their own apps.
The company’s current plans currently do not include features such as satellite phone calls, video calls, or web browsing. Furthermore, most of these new features are expected to be offered as part of a paid subscription plan. Apple currently uses Globalstar’s satellite infrastructure for its “Emergency SOS” service (on iPhone 14 and newer models). This service allows users outside of coverage area to send messages by sharing their location with emergency services and their loved ones.
To implement these new features, as Gurman mentioned, Globalstar will need to significantly upgrade its existing infrastructure. Tech insiders are speculating that if SpaceX were to acquire Globalstar, Apple would be able to deliver these features much faster. Other recent reports have also suggested a potential partnership between Apple and SpaceX. The fact that SpaceX’s new Starlink satellites are using Apple’s radio spectrum strengthens these claims.
It’s also being reported that Apple and its current partner, Globalstar, have fallen out. Globalstar CEO James Monroe has discussed the possibility of selling his company for over $10 billion, further confirming this. Apple’s new steps to make satellite connectivity a part of daily life could usher in a new era in mobile communications. So, what do you think of Apple’s new satellite features?
