Apple is Developing New Satellite Features for iPhone and Apple Watch

Apple is reportedly developing new satellite features for the iPhone and its Apple Watch. Though, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the future of these features may be up in the air.

As per the latest from Gurman, Apple is attempting to leverage satellite connectivity for Apple Maps. With this technology in place, users would theoretically be able to navigate without access to a cellular signal or Wi-Fi. Additionally, Apple is said to be developing “enhanced satellite messaging,” which supports photos on top of basic texts.

The report also goes on to state that the Cupertino company is building an API to allow developers to add satellite connections to their own apps. Though the use of satellite connections and features will ultimately be up to the developers. Gurman believes that not all features and services will be “compatible.”

With all of this in mind, these features would ultimately require a major upgrade to Globalstar’s satellite network. Apple heavily relies on Globalstar as its partner in this endeavour. However, Globalstar is in the midst of acquisition discussions with SpaceX. If the purchase goes through, Globalstar will likely have the infrastructure needed to implement such upgrades more quickly. However, given that the satellite company is relatively small in comparison to SpaceX at the time, a merger may mean that Apple would have to collaborate with SpaceX and comply with its scaling models.

Apple first introduced satellite features in 2022 when Emergency SOS via Satellite launched alongside iPhone 14. This feature allows users to contact emergency services without cellular service. In 2023, Apple added roadside assistance via AAA. Its satellite features now offer the ability to send and receive text messages when off the grid as well.