Imagine being on a remote hiking trail, miles from the nearest cell tower, and not only sending a text message but pulling up a detailed, live map of your exact location. Or, after a major storm knocks out local networks, sharing a photo with loved ones to show you're safe. This could be the near future for iPhone and Apple Watch users, as Apple is reportedly doubling down on its satellite technology.
Since its debut with the iPhone 14, Emergency SOS via satellite has been a potential lifesaver. Now, a new report from Bloomberg reveals that Apple is actively developing a suite of new features that will expand its satellite connectivity far beyond emergency use.
From Lifeline to Mainline: New Satellite Features on the Horizon
Currently, all iPhones since the iPhone 14 and the latest Apple Watch Ultra 3 (available from $699 on Amazon) allow users to make emergency calls and send texts via satellite. But Apple's vision is much broader. According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, several key enhancements are in the pipeline:
- Satellite-Powered Apple Maps: One of the most significant upgrades could be the ability to use Apple Maps for turn-by-turn navigation without a cellular signal—even if you haven't pre-downloaded an offline map. This would be a game-changer for travelers and adventurers, effectively eliminating the fear of getting lost in areas with no coverage.
- Picture Messaging via Satellite: The current text-only satellite messaging may soon get a visual upgrade. Apple is reportedly working on the ability to send and receive images over its satellite link, a feature that would add tremendous context and reassurance in emergency or remote situations.
- 5G NTN Support in iPhone 18: The upcoming iPhone 18 series is tipped to be the first to support 5G Non-Terrestrial Networks (5G NTN). This emerging standard is designed to integrate seamlessly with satellite networks, potentially offering much faster and more reliable data connections from space, significantly boosting network coverage globally.
- A Satellite API for Developers: In a move that could unlock massive innovation, Apple plans to give third-party developers access to the iPhone's satellite features through an Application Programming Interface (API). This would allow apps like WhatsApp, AllTrails, or Strava to integrate satellite messaging and location sharing directly into their experiences.
A Seamless, Invisible Connection
A key focus for Apple is also improving the user experience. The current requirement to carefully point your iPhone at a satellite for a connection could become a thing of the past. Future hardware may be powerful enough to maintain a satellite link even when the device is in your pocket or a moving car, making the technology truly effortless.
However, don't expect to be streaming video or making routine phone calls via satellite anytime soon. Apple reportedly has no plans to offer bandwidth-heavy features like video calls, standard phone calls, or web browsing over satellite. The primary limitation is the constrained bandwidth of Globalstar, Apple's current satellite partner.
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The SpaceX Factor: A Potential Game-Changer
This bandwidth constraint highlights why a potential industry shake-up is so critical. Bloomberg's report indicates that discussions are underway about a possible sale of Globalstar to the parent company of SpaceX.
If this deal goes through, it could radically change the game for Apple. Gaining access to SpaceX's advanced Starlink satellite network, known for its high bandwidth and low latency, could provide the necessary infrastructure to support more data-intensive features. This could eventually open the door for the very video calls and high-speed browsing that are currently off the table, potentially as part of a premium paid subscription service.
While Apple's plans are still in development, the message is clear: the company sees a connected future where your iPhone's link to the world doesn't end where the cell towers stop. Satellite connectivity is evolving from a niche safety net into a core, powerful feature for every user.
