Apple ‘plans to use’ satellites in its iPhones
In sunday's "Power On" newsletter for Bloomberg, Mark Gurman writes about some of the satellite-centric features that Apple is working on.
Apple is exploring how to better utilize the constellation of satellites orbiting Earth in a future iPhone, including one that could connect without taking it out of your pocket.
While Apple’s iPhone already supports texting, calling emergency services and contacting roadside assistance via satellite, the company is developing many more satellite features, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman.
He writes about some of the satellite-centric features that Apple is working on. This includes expanding the functionality of satellite connectivity so it can be used by third-party apps.
Apparently, this will involve creating an API that app developers can use. However, it is cautioned that not every satellite feature Apple creates will be available in this way.
All of these features could make using iPhones easier when owners are outside of traditional cellular coverage. Another potential update, first reported by The Information, could improve 5G networks by allowing them to connect to satellites to increase coverage.
But Apple wants to make it a more natural experience for users. This would mean that the iPhone could connect to satellites while it’s in a pocket or car, without requiring the user to interact with the iPhone in any specific way.
Once this is done, various satellite functions should be updated without user intervention.
To help with this process, Apple is expected to introduce broader support for 5G NTN (non-terrestrial networks) across its 2026 iPhone lineup. Specifically, cell towers will be able to use satellites to increase the coverage of devices.
According to Gurman, basic features would be free, with customers paying carriers for more advanced support. Additionally, Apple’s satellite partner “Globalstar” reportedly needs to upgrade its infrastructure to support these upgrades, which Apple is helping to fund.
Apple invested a generous $1.1 billion in Globalstar, but that hasn’t stopped rumors that Globalstar is selling itself to a potential buyer. The more likely buyer is Starlink owner SpaceX, not Apple, as the iPhone maker reportedly wants to avoid becoming an operator and facing that regulatory burden.
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