Apple’s satellite connectivity plans are about to shift in a big way. Amazon has announced its intent to acquire Globalstar, the company currently powering satellite features on iPhones, while also confirming a new agreement with Apple to support satellite connectivity across future devices. If regulatory approval goes through, the deal is expected to close in 2027, with Amazon’s low Earth orbit satellites eventually backing iPhone and Apple Watch features.
Right now, Apple’s satellite tools are designed for limited but critical use cases. They include Emergency SOS, Find My tracking, roadside assistance, and basic messaging when there is no cellular or Wi Fi coverage. These features remain free in supported regions, but they are intentionally restricted in speed and functionality.
That limitation is exactly what Apple appears to be addressing next. Multiple reports point to a broader satellite roadmap already in development, with several upgrades likely tied to upcoming iPhone hardware and future iOS releases.
One of the biggest changes in development is 5G over satellite. Current satellite connectivity is slow and limited to text-based communication, but Apple is reportedly working on enabling faster speeds through its next-generation modem. This could debut with the iPhone 18 Pro lineup, making satellite connectivity more practical for everyday use instead of just emergencies.
Apple is also working on bringing its Maps app to satellite networks. While offline maps already exist, true satellite support would allow navigation and location access even without pre-downloaded data. This could be especially useful in remote areas where connectivity drops entirely.
Messaging is expected to get a major upgrade too. Apple currently limits satellite communication to text, but future updates may allow users to send photos through Messages. This would make the feature far more useful in emergency situations where visuals can provide critical context.
Another key shift involves third-party apps. Apple is reportedly building an API that would let developers tap into satellite connectivity for their own apps. Early implementations may focus on safety and emergency tools, but broader use cases could follow as the infrastructure improves.
There are also indications that Apple is working to simplify how iPhones connect to satellites. Right now, users often need to position their device toward the sky to establish a connection. Future improvements could remove that requirement, making the experience feel closer to traditional cellular usage.
Amazon’s involvement suggests Apple’s satellite ecosystem will not just improve incrementally but scale more aggressively over time. The company has already hinted at additional features beyond current rumors, which means today’s limited satellite toolkit could evolve into a more complete connectivity layer across iPhone and Apple Watch.
(via Fixed Focus Digital and Bloomberg)
