Apple wants to make its satellite connectivity feature more useful to users, and now, it is reportedly working with Amazon to make that happen. After reports that Apple’s satellite partner Globalstar has now been acquired by Amazon, fresh leaks suggest the two companies are working closely on the next phase of satellite features.
With the next iPhone 18 Pro, Apple wants to improve the speed of its services so users can get help in different situations. Right now, satellite connectivity on iPhone is useful but limited. It mainly supports emergency SOS and basic text messaging, and speeds are quite slow, which the company wants to work on first.
Apple to Enable 5G Over Satellite
To achieve the speed, the biggest upgrade is expected to be 5G over satellite. Apple is reportedly introducing a new C2 modem in the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and iPhone Ultra. This modem could enable much faster satellite connectivity, making it far more practical for daily use. Instead of waiting minutes to send a message, users may get a smoother and quicker experience.
New Apple Maps Support is Coming
Another vital upgrade is coming to Apple Maps on the next iPhone devices. Currently, the app only works offline if maps are downloaded in advance. Otherwise, it needs an internet connection on the device. That may soon change, as Apple is working to enable Maps over satellite. For the person in an emergency, the athletes and hikers, it could become one of the most useful features in their outdoor activities.
Message App to Support Satellite Connectivity
Apple is also planning to expand satellite support inside the Messages app. At the moment, users can only send text messages via satellite. In the future, Apple may allow sending photos as well. This could be extremely useful in emergencies, such as sharing images of injuries or surroundings, and also for basic communication when there is no signal. To send images, it needs speed, and that’s why Apple has a plan to introduce 5G in satellite connectivity.
More Third-Party Apps Under Satellite Support
The fourth big upgrade is focused on developers. Apple is said to be building a new API that will allow third-party apps to use satellite connectivity. This means apps like navigation, safety, or even messaging platforms could integrate satellite features directly.
However, Apple may limit this initially to emergency-related use cases before expanding it further, such as health, security, and medical-related apps, which may receive the support before anyone else.
All these features are expected to launch with iPhone 18 Pro,18 Pro Max & iPhone Ultra, though there is no word on other models. Samsung & Google have also introduced Satellite Connectivity on their smartphones, but the feature is still in an early stage.
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