Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Slowly but surely, Apple has been introducing satellite features in its iPhones. Get ready for this to transform into a whole host of new abilities.
According to A Bloomberg reportApple is working to expand capabilities iPhoneAs well as some Apple Watches when operating via satellite links. This includes map features that work when off the grid, ways for third-party apps to access satellite communication, more messaging features such as transferring images as well as text, and perhaps ways to use satellite communications without a direct line of sight to the sky.
Watch this: Satellite Messaging in iOS 18: First look
Don’t miss any of our unbiased technical content and lab reviews. Add CNET As Google’s preferred source.
Over the past few years, Apple has introduced features that use satellite technology, including SOS in emergency situations, Roadside assistanceand Texting while offline.
An Apple representative did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Apple’s satellite ambitions could eventually compete more directly with services offered by major wireless carriers including AT&T and Verizon, according to Bloomberg. This could give Apple more control over security and design, making it less dependent on these communications partners.
How will Apple pull this off?
To enable these ambitious plans, Apple will need to build its own infrastructure, or at least partner with companies doing similar buildouts.
The company has already made plans to $1.5 billion investment in Globalstar To help finance a new satellite constellation, it could turn to SpaceX’s Starlink company to enhance its satellite services.
In the short term, Apple will likely roll out new consumer-friendly features while expanding its satellite capabilities.
“The next generation could allow hikers, travelers and remote workers to download map data, share photos and even receive live weather updates without cell coverage,” said Mehdi Islamihr, executive vice president of Quandary Peak Research.
Right now, Apple doesn’t charge for satellite features that have already been rolled out, but that may change as new capabilities are introduced.
“Basic satellite features are expected to remain free, while advanced capabilities, such as high-bandwidth image sharing or third-party integrations, may be available through paid subscriptions or bundled carrier plans,” Islaminehr said.
If Apple can provide more wireless access via satellite, along with cell towers as backups, that could be valuable during natural disasters or network outages, he said.
What will the transportation companies do?
Wireless carriers are not expected to simply wait for Apple to catch up with their services. They are Work alone Satellite-based services, either by building their own companies or partnering with satellite companies.
Apple could become one of many players offering hybrid connectivity in the future.
“For users outside the Apple ecosystem, this competition should accelerate industry-wide adoption of hybrid cellular and satellite services, improve reliability, expand rural coverage and potentially lower prices,” Eslaminehr says.