Apple relies on Globalstar’s satellites to enable it to send emergency text messages, iMessage reactions, and more through the skies in areas with no cell signal. The company launched its Emergency SOS feature in 2022 and has expanded it to more and more users in the past two years. The satellite features were available for free access for two years to the users but last year iPhone 14 users were given an extra year- till November 2025.
Also recently iOS 18 was introduced including non-emergency satellite messaging enabling iPhone users to send and receive text messages, emojis, and tap-backs, still with end-to-end encryption.
Yesterday in a SEC filing, Globalstar revealed that Apple will acquire a 20% ownership stake in Globalstar for nearly $400 million as part of an expansion of its deal with the company while Apple will also give a prepayment of $1.1 billion to improve satellite infrastructure. The filing also revealed that this partnership is extended to cover a new satellite constellation and more ground infrastructure. This latest deal between the two companies suggests that Apple has ambitious plans for its iPhone satellite features shortly.
Reports also reveal that while the satellite services are currently available for free, Apple may eventually charge users for these services.
