Highlights
- Apple plans to extend satellite connectivity beyond emergency use, enabling Maps and Messages to work without mobile networks in remote areas.
- New tech will allow iPhones to connect to satellites without needing line-of-sight, maintaining signal even in pockets, cars, or bags.
- Apple is also working on 5G Non-Terrestrial Networks and tools for developers to build offline-capable apps for travel, health, and safety.
It appears Apple is taking significant steps to make the iPhone more reliable in areas with limited or no mobile coverage. The company is expanding its satellite connectivity features beyond emergency use and is aiming to integrate them into Apple Maps and Messages. If successful, this move would allow iPhone users to navigate, communicate, and stay connected even without cellular networks, making the iPhone far more useful in remote and off-grid locations.
Apple Expanding Satellite Capabilities on iPhone
Apple first introduced Emergency SOS via Satellite in 2022 with the iPhone 14 series, allowing users to contact emergency services without network coverage. The service is powered by Globalstar and currently supports SOS messaging and roadside assistance in critical situations.
However, according to a new report, Apple is now working on advanced satellite connectivity technology that will allow iPhones to connect to satellites directly without requiring users to point their devices toward the sky. This means the connection could remain active even if the iPhone is in a pocket, car, or bag, offering a much more seamless and practical experience in areas with no mobile signal.
Integration With Maps and Messages
The upcoming feature aims to bring satellite connectivity to Apple Maps and Messages, two of the most widely used iPhone applications. Through this integration, users would be able to access navigation, receive location updates, and send text messages even in areas completely cut off from cellular networks.
Although satellite connectivity won’t replace traditional mobile networks, it is expected to enhance user safety and accessibility by providing essential communication features in low-coverage or off-grid environments.
Apple Working on 5G NTN Support
In addition to the satellite integration, Apple is also said to be developing support for 5G NTN (Non-Terrestrial Networks). This technology combines satellite and terrestrial mobile networks, ensuring stronger and more consistent coverage, particularly in regions where connectivity frequently drops.
The company is further developing a framework for app developers, which would allow third-party apps such as those related to travel, health, and safety to function even without an internet connection.
FAQs
Q1. What new satellite features is Apple planning for iPhones?
Answer. Apple is expanding satellite connectivity beyond emergency use to support Apple Maps and Messages, allowing navigation and texting without mobile networks.
Q2. Will users need to point their iPhones toward the sky to use satellite features?
Answer. No, Apple is developing technology that enables seamless satellite connection even when the iPhone is in a pocket, car, or bag.
Q3. What is 5G NTN and how is Apple involved?
Answer. Apple is working on 5G Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN), which combine satellite and mobile networks for stronger, more consistent coverage in low-signal areas.