Apple has pioneered the integration of satellite connectivity in its iPhones, beginning with the iPhone 14 series, which introduced Emergency SOS via satellite. This feature allows users to send emergency messages when outside cellular and Wi-Fi coverage, providing a critical lifeline in remote or disaster-stricken areas. With the release of iOS 18, Apple has expanded satellite messaging capabilities beyond emergency use, enabling users to send and receive regular SMS and iMessages via satellite when off the grid[1][2].
The expansion announced at WWDC 2024 means that iPhone users can now communicate with friends, family, and colleagues through the Messages app using satellite connectivity, not just emergency services. This includes sending texts, emojis, and tapbacks over both iMessage and SMS. The functionality is available on iPhone 14 and later models, which already support Emergency SOS via satellite[2].
Apple’s satellite messaging leverages its existing partnership with Globalstar, a satellite operator whose constellation is currently limited but undergoing expansion with new satellites planned for launch in 2025. This partnership is crucial for the service’s scalability, though industry experts note questions remain about pricing, mobile network operator roles, and how capacity constraints might affect widespread adoption[2].
Looking ahead to the iPhone 17, it is reasonable to expect that Apple will continue to build upon this satellite messaging foundation. Given the trajectory from emergency-only services to broader messaging capabilities, the iPhone 17 could further enhance satellite communication features, potentially improving speed, reliability, and integration with other services like voice or data satellite connectivity. However, the current satellite infrastructure and technology still impose limitations on capacity and latency, meaning satellite messaging is unlikely to replace traditional cellular networks anytime soon.
Moreover, Apple’s focus on privacy remains strong; messages sent via satellite are end-to-end encrypted, ensuring that only the sender and recipient can read the content. Location data shared during satellite messaging is handled with strict privacy controls depending on the service used, such as Emergency SOS or Find My[3].
In summary, the iPhone 17 is poised to expand satellite messaging beyond emergency services, continuing Apple’s innovation in direct-to-device satellite communication. While the initial rollout focuses on text messaging, future iterations may explore richer satellite-based communication options as satellite networks evolve and capacity increases. This development marks a significant step toward keeping users connected even in the most remote locations, enhancing safety and communication flexibility beyond traditional cellular coverage[2].
[1] https://support.apple.com/guide/iphone/text-via-satellite-iphb9262f4dd/ios
[2] https://www.capacitymedia.com/article/2dd1f76g4ah04c1qnglj4/news/apple-expands-satellite-messaging-beyond-emergency-calls
[3] https://support.apple.com/en-us/105097