Although Apple’s iPhone already enables users to perform essential communication tasks such as sending text messages, making phone calls to emergency services, and requesting roadside assistance through its existing satellite connectivity features, the company appears to be preparing for a far more ambitious expansion of its satellite-driven capabilities. According to a report from Bloomberg’s well-known journalist Mark Gurman, Apple is actively developing a series of advanced tools and functionalities that will take greater advantage of satellite technology, hinting at a future where smartphones operate far more independently of terrestrial networks.
Among the features reportedly under development is a sophisticated application programming interface (API) that would give independent software developers the ability to integrate satellite communication directly into their own apps. This kind of access could open entirely new possibilities for real-time communication, data transfer, and emergency coordination in remote or disconnected regions. Another significant project involves a reimagined version of Apple Maps designed to function even when the device has neither cellular service nor Wi-Fi connectivity, thereby allowing users to navigate accurately while traveling through areas with poor or nonexistent network coverage—such as mountainous terrain, oceans, or isolated rural zones.
Apple is also said to be working on the ability to attach images to messages sent via satellite, adding a richer, more expressive layer to off-grid communication. Moreover, engineers are reportedly refining what Apple refers to as “natural usage,” an enhancement that would allow an iPhone to establish a stable satellite connection even when the device is not precisely oriented toward the sky. Such improvements would make the experience of using satellite connectivity feel seamless and intuitive, rather than requiring users to adjust their positioning to maintain signal strength.
Collectively, these anticipated upgrades would significantly expand the utility of the iPhone for people who find themselves beyond the reach of conventional mobile networks. The result could be a device that remains functional in locations where traditional connectivity methods fail altogether. Complementing these upgrades, a separate report from The Information suggests that Apple may also be exploring ways to leverage satellites to enhance the coverage and performance of 5G networks, potentially enabling mobile carriers to extend high-speed data access to locations previously left unserved.
Bloomberg’s Gurman notes that Apple intends to make the fundamental satellite features available at no additional cost to iPhone users, ensuring that basic connectivity for urgent communication remains accessible. However, consumers seeking enhanced or specialized functionality would likely pay their respective mobile carriers for expanded service plans. In order to make these technological ambitions feasible, Apple’s satellite partner, Globalstar, will reportedly need to increase the capacity and robustness of its existing infrastructure. Apple is said to be lending financial and technical support to facilitate these infrastructure improvements, underscoring the company’s long-term commitment to transforming satellite functionality from a niche emergency service into an integral part of mainstream mobile communication.
Sourse: https://techcrunch.com/2025/11/09/apple-reportedly-plans-ambitious-satellite-powered-iphone-features/
