Report: New satellite functions planned for iPhone
iPhone can transmit position data and emergency info via satellite. New features are coming, but no web access.
Satellite from Eutelsat OneWeb (computer graphic). Apple uses other providers like Globalstar.
(Image: dpa, WorldVu LLC/Airbus)
Apple wants to expand its range of satellite services for iPhone owners – but initially not to offer a "real" internet connection for the devices. As the financial news agency Bloomberg reported on Sunday, Apple will release individual apps and purchase more capacity to improve connection quality.
From simple services to full-fledged ones
Since the iPhone 14 from 2022, users in certain regions of the world can use "Emergency SOS via Satellite" to get help even where there is no mobile reception. It is also possible to share location data, and in three countries North America you can send iMessage messages and SMS (without images) via satellite. In the coming years, further features are to be added. It is still unclear what will be possible with existing devices and what new hardware will be necessary. According to Bloomberg, it is also clear that Apple's current satellite radio partner Globalstar will have to upgrade its infrastructure.
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In total, according to insiders, five new functions are planned. For example, using new APIs, individual apps will gain access to satellite radio for the first time to request data. The implementation is the responsibility of the developers. It remains unclear what scope the data that can be retrieved will have, as "not every function and every service" is compatible. On Apple's side, Maps services will be supported in the future, and better messaging options are planned – in addition to text and emojis, images will also be supported for the first time.
"Natural" use in your pocket
Finally, satellite radio should generally be easier to use. Until now, you had to go outside and have a clear view of the sky, but the goal is now to maintain the connection even in cars and indoors – or even when the iPhone remains in your pocket. This is called "Natural Usage" in the satellite industry. The fifth new function is the sharing of 5G radio via satellite (NTN, Non-terrestrial networks). This could mean that mobile radio towers are supplied via satellite.
According to the report, "real" satellite internet, including web access, video chats, or phone calls, is not planned. However, if Apple were to reach an agreement with Elon Musk's company SpaceX, which is aggressively marketing this technology through its subsidiary Starlink, this could change. Gurman speculates that Starlink could acquire Globalstar, for whose infrastructure expansion Apple has reportedly partially funded at times. Together, they could then offer paid premium services.
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