Apple plans iPhone satellite upgrades for maps and Messages

Apple is preparing a significant expansion of satellite connectivity on future iPhones, enabling Apple Maps navigation and photo sharing in Messages without cellular or Wi-Fi, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. 

The plans, outlined in his “Power On” newsletter, also include a developer framework that allows third-party apps to opt in to satellite links. There are currently no plans to support satellite phones, video calls, or general web browsing, the report said. Apple has not announced the features publicly. 

Gurman adds that Apple is working to make satellite use more seamless—eventually allowing iPhones to connect from indoors rather than requiring users to point devices toward a clear sky. Some capabilities would rely on 5G non-terrestrial networks and wider industry support. 

Many of the advanced functions would require upgrades to Globalstar's infrastructure, Apple’s satellite partner for Emergency SOS. Bloomberg has reported that Globalstar is exploring a sale and has held preliminary talks with SpaceX; any deal could influence rollout timing. 

Apple has previously committed up to $1.5 billion to bolster Globalstar’s network, and Globalstar allocates the majority of its capacity to Apple services. 

Apple’s basic Emergency SOS via satellite remains free for eligible iPhone users, with Apple recently extending complimentary access. Gurman reports that customers could eventually pay satellite carriers directly for enhanced capabilities as they become available. Apple has also expanded off-grid messaging in iOS 18.