Apple iPhones may soon get satellite-powered internet and calling feature: Report
Apple iPhones may soon get satellite-powered internet and calling feature: Report
According to a report by PCMag, iPhones may see an expansion of satellite-powered features shortly. This information comes from an FCC filing made by Globalstar, a partner of Apple, which indicates that Apple is exploring the possibility of incorporating more satellite-powered capabilities into its iPhones.
The filing suggests that Apple is looking to utilize Globalstar’s satellite network to enhance iPhones’ functionality. While the exact details of these features are unknown, they could potentially include improved connectivity in areas with limited or no cellular coverage, emergency communication capabilities, and enhanced location services.
The addition of satellite-powered features would be a significant development for iPhones, as it would further expand their capabilities and provide users with more options for staying connected in various scenarios. This could be particularly beneficial for users in remote areas or during natural disasters or emergencies when traditional communication networks may be compromised.
The FCC filing by Globalstar indicates that Apple is actively exploring and pursuing the integration of satellite technology into its devices. While it is unclear when these features will be introduced or which specific iPhone models will support them, it demonstrates Apple’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology and providing innovative solutions to its users.
Apple has always been at the forefront of technological advancements, and incorporating satellite-powered features into its iPhones aligns with its vision of delivering cutting-edge products and services. By leveraging Globalstar’s satellite network, Apple has the potential to revolutionize the way iPhones connect and communicate, offering users an even more seamless and reliable experience.
As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the demand for reliable and uninterrupted communication continues to grow. Satellite-powered features on iPhones would further bridge the gap between traditional cellular networks and satellite connectivity, providing users with more comprehensive coverage and enhanced capabilities wherever they may be.
While the specific details and timeline for these satellite-powered features are yet to be revealed, the FCC filing indicates that Apple is actively exploring this avenue. As technology advances and partnerships like the one with Globalstar evolve, iPhones will likely continue to grow, bringing new and exciting possibilities to users worldwide.
Apple has taken a significant step in integrating satellite technology into its iPhones by introducing the emergency SOS via satellite feature in the iPhone 14 series. This new feature allows users to send emergency SOS messages via satellite in areas with no cellular or Wi-Fi coverage. This groundbreaking development can provide a lifeline in critical situations where traditional communication methods are unavailable.
With the emergency SOS via satellite feature, iPhone users can access emergency services even in remote locations or facing network outages. By simply activating the SOS feature, users can send a distress signal via satellite to alert emergency responders. This capability can be crucial in situations such as hiking or outdoor activities in areas with limited connectivity, where immediate help may be required.
In addition to the emergency SOS feature, Apple has also integrated satellite technology into its Find My app. Users can now utilize satellite connectivity to share their location with others, ensuring they can be easily located in emergencies or when meeting up with others in remote areas. This feature enhances safety and provides peace of mind, especially for outdoor enthusiasts or individuals travelling to unfamiliar locations.
The integration of satellite technology into iPhones represents Apple’s commitment to expanding the functionality and reliability of its devices. By harnessing satellite connectivity, Apple empowers users to stay connected and access emergency services even in challenging or remote environments. This advancement aligns with Apple’s mission to provide innovative solutions that enhance the overall user experience and prioritize safety.
As technology advances, we can expect further integration of satellite-powered features into future iPhone models. Apple’s dedication to leveraging satellite technology opens up a world of possibilities, enabling users to have enhanced communication capabilities wherever they go.
With the introduction of the emergency SOS via satellite feature and the integration of satellite connectivity into the Find My app, Apple is leading the way in utilizing satellite technology to improve the safety and convenience of its users. These advancements further solidify iPhones as versatile and reliable devices, catering to users’ needs in various scenarios, including emergency situations and outdoor adventures.
According to the report, there are indications that Apple may extend satellite-powered features on iPhones to include voice calls and internet connectivity. The FCC filing by Apple’s partner, Globalstar, suggests plans to enable satellite internet services for “unmodified” smartphones, including those from T-Mobile, using SpaceX’s technology.
Globalstar states in its filing that its mobile satellite service (MSS) system will continue to evolve, supporting a wider range of direct-to-handset features and services in its licensed spectrum. This statement implies that Globalstar may be working on a plan to provide satellite voice calls and internet connectivity for Apple iPhones.
If Apple incorporates satellite voice and internet capabilities into iPhones, it could revolutionize communication options, especially in areas with limited or no cellular coverage. Users could make voice calls and access the internet using satellite technology, bypassing the need for traditional cellular networks or Wi-Fi connections.
This development aligns with the broader trend of leveraging satellite technology to extend connectivity to remote and underserved areas. By integrating satellite voice and internet services into iPhones, Apple would enhance the accessibility and reliability of communication for its users, particularly in situations where traditional networks are unavailable or unreliable.
However, it’s important to note that, at this point, these are potential plans based on the FCC filing and statements made by Globalstar. The actual implementation and timeline for such features on iPhones remain uncertain.
Nevertheless, if Apple incorporates satellite voice calls and internet connectivity, it could have significant implications for users, enabling them to stay connected even in remote or challenging environments. This development would further solidify Apple’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology and expanding its devices’ capabilities to meet its users’ evolving needs.
To use Apple’s Emergency SOS via satellite feature on iPhone 14 or iPhone 14 Pro, follow these steps:
- Ensure that your iPhone is running on the latest software version. You can check for updates by visiting Settings > General > Software Update.
- Activate your iPhone 14 or iPhone 14 Pro by setting it up and connecting it to a cellular network.
- Enable Emergency SOS by going to Settings > Emergency SOS. Make sure the toggle for “Emergency SOS” is turned on.
- In case of an emergency where you have no cellular or Wi-Fi coverage, press and hold the side button and one of the volume buttons simultaneously.
- A slider will appear on the screen. Slide it to the right to initiate the Emergency SOS call.
- Your iPhone will attempt to connect to emergency services via satellite. If successful, it will send a text message with your location to emergency services and any emergency contacts you have set up in the Health app.
- Stay on the line and communicate with the emergency services operator as necessary until help arrives.
It’s important to note that the Emergency SOS via satellite feature requires an active subscription, which is provided free for two years after activating an iPhone 14 or iPhone 14 Pro. After the two-year period, additional charges may apply.
Also, please be aware that the availability of the Emergency SOS via satellite feature may vary depending on your location and the coverage provided by satellite networks.
It’s always recommended to familiarize yourself with the emergency services in your area and use the Emergency SOS feature responsibly in genuine emergency situations.
