Apple expands satellite features on iPhones, including offline maps and messaging

Apple is set to broaden its satellite capabilities on iPhones, moving beyond emergency texts to include offline mapping, photo messaging, and potential wearable support, signifying a major shift in off-grid connectivity.

Apple is reportedly expanding its use of satellite technology on iPhones beyond the current emergency calling and texting features, aiming to offer a wider array of connectivity options even when users are off the traditional cellular grid. According to a recent report by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, upcoming iPhone models could enable satellite-enabled functions such as offline use of Apple Maps and photo messaging, leveraging satellite networks to maintain connectivity without internet access.

These new features, while still in development, are expected to be free for users under basic terms; however, telecom carriers might charge for advanced satellite support. Apple has made it clear that voice or video calls and web browsing over satellite are not planned for the near future. Internally, Apple has considered launching its own satellite service but apparently hesitated due to the potential complexity of becoming a network carrier. Alternatively, the company might collaborate with satellite communication firms like SpaceX to offer users paid, extended satellite connectivity.

Currently, Apple’s satellite services for iPhones operate through Globalstar’s network, which the company helped fund and upgrade to support these functions. This partnership includes a significant investment by Apple, up to $1.5 billion to expand Globalstar’s satellite infrastructure, with Apple acquiring 20% equity in the company and purchasing network capacity that it will predominantly use. This deal highlights Apple’s strategic commitment to satellite technology as a means of enhancing iPhone usability in locations lacking cellular coverage.

Satellite capabilities integrated into iPhones today, such as on the iPhone 14 and later models, allow users in regions like the United States, Canada, and Mexico to send emergency messages via satellite when outdoors with a clear view of the sky, free for two years after device activation. However, current satellite texting restrictions mean photos, videos, group messages, and other rich content cannot yet be sent over these links. Carrier-based satellite services have also started emerging, with some providers enhancing their networks to support satellite communications for emergency texts and location sharing in remote areas, as seen in Japan and New Zealand through partnerships with SpaceX’s Starlink service.

Notably, the collaboration between Apple, SpaceX, and T-Mobile is advancing satellite connectivity on iPhones further. Recent FCC approval now permits iPhones to participate in Starlink’s direct-to-cell trial in the United States, starting with text messaging via satellite and planning eventual voice and data support. This development underscores a growing ecosystem integrating terrestrial and satellite cellular technologies.

Looking ahead, Apple intends to deepen satellite feature integration by introducing a satellite API for third-party apps and improving the natural use of satellite signals indoors, eliminating the current need to point phones toward an open sky. The company is also expected to debut AI-powered enhancements to Siri, powered by a custom Google Gemini model, in 2026.

Moreover, Apple is extending satellite communication to its wearables, with plans to offer satellite messaging on the Apple Watch Ultra in 2025. This expansion will allow users to send messages without cellular or internet service. Alongside these connectivity features, Apple is developing health-related capabilities for its watches, including blood pressure monitoring.

Apple’s refined satellite ambitions, backed by significant investment and strategic partnerships, could revolutionise connectivity, making iPhones and Apple Watches more reliable in off-grid environments and emergencies. This represents a major evolution in the company’s vision for its devices, combining innovative satellite technology with traditional mobile networks to offer seamless communication options for users worldwide.

📌 Reference Map:

• ^[1] Indian Express – Paragraphs 1, 2, 4, 6, 9, 11, 12
• ^[2] Apple Support (Messages via satellite) – Paragraph 3
• ^[3] Apple Support (Carrier-provided satellite features) – Paragraph 5
• ^[4] Reuters (Starlink direct-to-cell coverage) – Paragraph 7
• ^[5] MacRumors (Carrier satellite service expansion) – Paragraph 5
• ^[6] Reuters (Satellite communication on Apple Watch) – Paragraph 10
• ^[7] Reuters (Apple’s investment in Globalstar) – Paragraph 4

Source: Noah Wire Services