Apple is developing an exciting range of new satellite connectivity features for the iPhone, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. These enhancements promise to significantly expand the functionality of iPhone users, especially in areas without traditional cellular or Wi-Fi access.
In his latest “Power On” newsletter, Gurman outlined several innovations underway:
- Apple Maps via Satellite: Users will be able to navigate with Apple Maps in complete absence of cellular or Wi-Fi connectivity, relying solely on satellite signals.
- Photos in Messages via Satellite: The Messages app will support sending photos using satellite connectivity, making multimedia sharing possible from remote locations.
- Natural Usage Satellite Connectivity: This feature aims to allow satellite connectivity even indoors, removing the current requirement to point the device toward a clear sky.
- Satellite over 5G: Apple plans to support 5G Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN), where cell towers augment coverage by leveraging satellites.
- Satellite API for Third-Party Apps: Developers will get a Satellite API framework to voluntarily integrate satellite connectivity features into their apps, though compatibility will vary among services.
At this stage, Apple is not planning to enable phone calls, video calls, or web browsing through satellite connectivity.
Currently, Apple’s satellite features are available free of charge. However, Gurman reports that for more advanced satellite capabilities in the future, Apple intends to allow customers to pay carriers directly for satellite services. There could also be a premium option for extended connectivity, potentially in partnership with companies like SpaceX.
Additionally, discussions have taken place within Apple about launching its own satellite network. Nevertheless, concerns about Apple acting as a traditional carrier have put these plans on hold.
Many of these satellite improvements will depend on upgrades to the infrastructure of Globalstar, a satellite communications company Apple has financially supported. Should SpaceX acquire Globalstar, these enhancements might be implemented more rapidly, accelerating the rollout of new features.
These developments indicate Apple’s commitment to pushing satellite technology further and bringing seamless connectivity to users worldwide, even in the most remote locations .
