Apple Explores New Satellite Features for Future iPhones (macobserver.com) 23
In 2022 the iPhone 14 featured emergency satellite service, and there's now support for roadside assistance and the ability to send and receive text messages.
But for future iPhones, Apple is now reportedly working on five new satellite features, reports LiveMint: As per Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, Apple is building an API that would allow developers to add satellite connections to their own apps. However, the implementation is said to depend on app makers, and not every feature or service may be compatible with this system. The iPhone maker is also reportedly working on bringing satellite connectivity to Apple Maps, which would give users the chance to navigate without having access to a SIM card or Wi-Fi. The company is also said to be working on improved satellite messages that could support sending photos and not be limited to just text messages. Apple currently relies on the satellite network run by Globalstar to power current features on iPhones. However, the company is said to be exploring a potential sale, and Elon Musk's SpaceX could be a possible purchaser.
The Mac Observer notes Bloomberg also reported Apple "has discussed building its own satellite service instead of depending on partners." And while some Apple executives pushed back, "the company continues to fund satellite research and infrastructure upgrades with the goal of offering a broader range of features."
And "Future iPhones will use satellite links to extend 5G coverage in low-signal regions, ensuring that users remain connected even when cell towers are out of range.... Apple's slow but steady progress shows how the company wants iPhone satellite technology to move from emergency use to everyday convenience."
But for future iPhones, Apple is now reportedly working on five new satellite features, reports LiveMint: As per Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, Apple is building an API that would allow developers to add satellite connections to their own apps. However, the implementation is said to depend on app makers, and not every feature or service may be compatible with this system. The iPhone maker is also reportedly working on bringing satellite connectivity to Apple Maps, which would give users the chance to navigate without having access to a SIM card or Wi-Fi. The company is also said to be working on improved satellite messages that could support sending photos and not be limited to just text messages. Apple currently relies on the satellite network run by Globalstar to power current features on iPhones. However, the company is said to be exploring a potential sale, and Elon Musk's SpaceX could be a possible purchaser.
The Mac Observer notes Bloomberg also reported Apple "has discussed building its own satellite service instead of depending on partners." And while some Apple executives pushed back, "the company continues to fund satellite research and infrastructure upgrades with the goal of offering a broader range of features."
And "Future iPhones will use satellite links to extend 5G coverage in low-signal regions, ensuring that users remain connected even when cell towers are out of range.... Apple's slow but steady progress shows how the company wants iPhone satellite technology to move from emergency use to everyday convenience."
Apple Missing The Boat (Score:1)
Apple is missing the boat with this. They need to focus on Starlink, or Starlink-like service.
Starlink's Direct to Cell service is the way to go.
Re: (Score:3)
Too bad it'll never come to pass. No government would permit such a thing.
Re: (Score:1)
in some countries supporting an authoritarian is a plus, but not the US
LOL Maybe you've somehow missed the entire rise of MAGA?
Re: (Score:3)
Wot? Wasn't it Apple's CEO who presented la Presidenta a shiny token of support for being a Nazi sympathizer?
Re: (Score:3, Insightful)
It's not worth having a Nazi service.
Because that's the term you people apply to everyone except, curiously, the actual folks who paint swastikas on synagogues.
Re: (Score:1, Troll)
You have another name for someone who does a sig heil and is the key note speaker for a German right wing party?
we dont need SIM card or wifi to navigate (Score:2, Insightful)
which would give users the chance to navigate without having access to a SIM card or Wi-Fi
this technology already exists. the phone has a gps. it has the ability to load a map on it.
what's missing is the ability to spy on people wherever they are, and serve them ads. that needs wifi or sim card or satellite.
Like huawei has? (Score:2)
I guess there is something different...
Re: (Score:2)
My government has forbidden me from buying their products.
Re: (Score:2)
No it hasn't. You're welcome to buy their products, while outside the U.S.
Apple satellites? (Score:3)
Interesting idea. They will certainly be light enough to be put into orbit cheaply, but how will they be powered? Solar panels, even with rounded corners, tend to stick out in an aesthetically displeasing way. Will a Chinese wireless charging satellite need to pass close by several times a day?
Re: Apple satellites? (Score:2)
Unlucky for Apple (Score:1)
I think Starlink just really messed up their roadmap with the satellite stuff. I know lots of people who do backcountry trails, and when the iPhone 14 came out with the satellite connectivity, a lot of them were quite excited. My guess is that after proving out the SoS functionality, they would have extended it to a paid service for messaging and then started upgrading it to handle more and more data. In the end you'd have a phone you could use anywhere for a hefty subscription fee. Combined with the whole
Weather (Score:2)
The most useful feature for the same people who use text messaging and emergency services when they are outside of a cell coverage area is a local weather forecast. Something that the Garmin In-Reach family of devices do, and really the only thing an avid hiker / paddler / outdoors person is missing from the Apple service that can be a matter of life or death.