Apple began launching satellite connectivity features with iPhone 14 in 2022. Then they came SOS emergency via satellite and Search via satellitesubsequently Roadside assistance via satellite and Satellite messages. Mark GurmanBloomberg’s Apple specialist, has revealed that the company is developing a new series of satellite connectivity features for the iPhone which are part of a strategy to expand the connection options of its users beyond traditional mobile operators.
Gurman affirms that within Apple they have maintained internal talks about whether the company should launch its own satellite service. However, some executives maintain that Apple is not a carrier and should not behave like one.
The 5 new satellite connectivity features of the iPhone
Satellite connectivity features that could be added to future generations of iPhone include:
- Satellite over 5G: iPhones released in 2026 could support 5G NTN, a technology that allows cell towers to use satellite infrastructure to expand coverage.
- Support for photos in satellite messages: Apple may soon allow users to send images through the Messages app via satellite connection, expanding the current feature that only supports sending text.
- Satellite framework for third-party apps: Developers in the Apple ecosystem could gain access to an API that allows them to integrate satellite connectivity into their applications. However, compatibility will vary and not all features or services will be supported.
- Natural use: Apple users could no longer have to manually point their devices towards the sky to establish a connection with a satellite, thus allowing for a more seamless connection.
- Apple Maps with satellite connection: This function will allow you to navigate on Apple Maps even without mobile coverage or access to Wi-Fi.
Apple depends on satellite infrastructure globalstar and enabling the aforementioned features would require a major upgrade to your network and associated systems. On the other hand, it has been known that Globalstar is in talks with SpaceX about a possible acquisition, which could accelerate the deployment of these capabilities for Apple.
Apple also plans to offer these features via satellite for freeas it has done until now with those already operational, although users They will be able to pay operators, SpaceX or other providers for access to more advanced services.
Gurman points out that, while SpaceX signs agreements with operators to enable phone and video calls via satellite connectionApple, for now, has no plans to offer similar capabilities.
The iPhone satellite connectivity functions available in Spain
When Apple launched the first three years ago, with availability then only in the United States and Canada, He said they would be free for the first year.. Then it has extended that period several times and currently Apple has the limit November 2026. It is users of iPhone 14 onwards who can use them. Those that are already operational in Spain are:
- SOS emergency via satellite– Allows you to send text messages and location to emergency services when there is no mobile coverage or Wi-Fi.
- Search (Find My) via satellite: Allows you to share your location with your contacts in the Search app when you are out of mobile coverage and without Wi-Fi.
Those that have not yet reached the iPhone in Spain
- Roadside assistance via satellite: allows you to contact a roadside assistance service if you suffer a breakdown in an area without mobile coverage or Wi-Fi.
- Satellite messages– Allows you to send and receive iMessage and SMS with your contacts using satellites when there is no mobile network or Wi-Fi available.