SpaceX’s next-gen Starlink satellites may support the same radio spectrum used by Apple’s Globalstar network.
Apple is reportedly working to add support for non-terrestrial 5G and satellite-based networks in upcoming iPhones.
A potential Globalstar sale could open the door for Apple to expand satellite partnerships, including with SpaceX.
Till now, Apple and SpaceX currently have no formal partnership for Starlink powered internet on iPhones but the new details suggest that the two tech giants may not remain distant for long. According to the report by The Information, the Apple iPhone 18 Pro may get some possible hardware changes including a broader satellite connectivity in the Apple ecosystem.
SurveyThe report added that SpaceX’s upcoming Starlink satellites are being designed to support the same radio spectrum currently used by Apple’s satellite partner, Globalstar. For the unversed, Apple has relied on Globalstar’s network since the launch of the iPhone 14 to enable its Emergency SOS via satellite feature, which lets users contact emergency services or share their location without cellular coverage. The feature is also available on the Apple Watch Ultra 3.
On the other hand, Globstar’s chairman, James Monroe, is reportedly exploring a potential sale valued at around $10 billion. The report also stated a move that could indicate that both Apple and Globalstar are looking to restructure or reduce their dependency on each other, possibly creating space for Apple to expand its satellite partnerships in the future.
Interestingly, the leaks already suggest that Apple is preparing to add support for 5G networks that operate beyond Earth’s surface, including satellite based networks, in the upcoming iPhones, potentially starting with iPhone 18 lineup.
SpaceX, on the other hand, has become a household name in the satellite connectivity space, and the Elon Musk-led company recently signed a $17 billion spectrum deal with EchoStar to strengthen its direct-to-cell capabilities, adding another layer of potential synergy with Apple’s ambitions.
It should be noted that no official information regarding the company talks has been confirmed at this time. Both are laying the groundwork for Apple devices to connect to Starlink’s extensive satellite network.
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Ashish Singh
Ashish Singh is the Chief Copy Editor at Digit. He's been wrangling tech jargon since 2020 (Times Internet, Jagran English '22). When not policing commas, he's likely fueling his gadget habit with coffee, strategising his next virtual race, or plotting a road trip to test the latest in-car tech. He speaks fluent Geek. View Full Profile
