Apple is rumored to have four new iPhone satellite features coming, here’s what’s coming

Apple’s satellite partner, Globalstar, was acquired by Amazon this week. But now Apple and Amazon are working together, and rumors indicate that four new satellite features will be coming to the iPhone soon.

#1: 5G over satellite

The current satellite connectivity in iPhone works very slow. But that’s about to change soon, at least with the iPhone 18 lineup.

Reporting indicates that this time Apple’s C2 modem coming to the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and iPhone Ultra will add support for 5G over satellite.

The ability to provide faster connection speeds over satellite will make satellite facilities more convenient than they currently are. In terms of convenience, Apple is also working to make getting a satellite connection less cumbersome than it is now.

#2: Apple Maps Support

Apple Maps lets you download maps for offline use, but otherwise it only works when connected via Wi-Fi or cellular.

but according to bloombergApple is working to make Maps available on satellite as well.

It’s unclear whether this will require the new 5G capabilities of the C2 modem in the iPhone 18 Pro, but it’s certainly possible.

#3: Photos in Messages App

bloomberg It’s also noted that Apple plans to bring support for sending photos to the Messages app over satellite.

Currently, you can only send text messages via satellite connection – and this feature has been a lifesaver.

The ability to send photos will prove convenient not only for everyday use, but also in emergency situations where one needs to send photos of an injury or its location.

#4: Third-Party APIs for Apps

Finally, Apple is also reportedly working on an API that will let third-party developers tap into the satellite connection for features in their apps. Mark Gurman writes: :

Apple is creating an API that will let developers add satellite connections to their apps. Implementation will depend on app makers, and not every feature or service will be compatible.

It’s possible that Apple will limit it to emergency-related features at first, with satellite availability becoming more widespread with a broader rollout over time.

Have you used the iPhone’s satellite features before? How did it work for you? Let us know in the comments.

Best iPhone Accessories