According to WCCF citing The Information, Apple is in talks with SpaceX to use the Starlink satellite network for providing Direct-to-Cell phone service in future flagships like the iPhone 18 Pro. A key feature of this technology is the lack of need for any additional equipment; the smartphone will connect to low Earth orbit satellites as easily as to regular cell towers. Currently, there are no insider details about the progress of the negotiations.
As of now, Apple is collaborating with Globalstar to operate the “Emergency Request – SOS” feature, but according to insiders, the partners’ relationship is cooling. Despite Apple investing approximately $2 billion, Globalstar is considering selling its business for $10 billion due to the growing dominance of Starlink. Apple aims to offer users full satellite 5G internet and messaging outside the coverage of terrestrial networks as early as 2026-2027. The technical foundation for the project will be provided by Starlink’s second-generation (Gen2) satellites.
SpaceX has already received approval from the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to operate a constellation of 15,000 such devices. The Gen2 satellites boast 20 times greater bandwidth and can directly connect to smartphones. Apple is also planning to release a special API which will allow third-party developers to integrate satellite communication features directly into their applications.
Moreover, Apple’s move can be seen as a strategic effort to stay ahead in the increasingly competitive market of mobile telecommunication, with advanced satellite technology potentially rendering traditional towers obsolete in remote areas. With SpaceX’s widespread launch capabilities, this partnership might set a new standard for cell service and reshape how users interact with technology.
