Apple’s Satellite Ambition: iPhone 18 Pro May Enter the Starlink Connectivity Era
Apple is reportedly preparing a major leap in mobile connectivity by exploring a partnership with SpaceX to use the Starlink satellite network. According to industry sources, the company aims to enable direct cellular connectivity on upcoming iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max models—without requiring any additional hardware from users.
Apple already has experience with satellite-based communication through its Emergency SOS feature, which relies on Globalstar’s satellite infrastructure. This system allows iPhone users to contact emergency services, share their location, and send limited messages in areas without cellular or Wi-Fi coverage.
However, signs suggest that Apple’s relationship with Globalstar may be weakening. Statements from Globalstar’s chairman about a potential sale valued at over $10 billion have fueled speculation that the partnership may not be long-term. At the same time, Starlink’s rapidly expanding capabilities are making it an increasingly attractive option for Apple.
Despite investing nearly $2 billion in Globalstar, Apple is unlikely to pursue a full acquisition. The primary reason is regulatory: Apple has no interest in operating under the constraints of a traditional mobile carrier. Instead, the company prefers strategic partnerships, allowing it to offer satellite-based services without charging users directly.
According to a report by The Information, Apple is in talks with SpaceX to integrate Starlink’s “direct to cell” technology into the iPhone 18 Pro lineup. This approach would enable standard smartphones to connect directly to satellites, aligning with earlier reports that Apple plans to introduce satellite-based 5G connectivity as early as 2026.
Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman adds that future iPhones will support 5G Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) technology, which extends cellular coverage through satellites. Apple is also rumored to be developing a dedicated API, allowing app developers to integrate satellite connectivity into their applications.
On SpaceX’s side, recent developments further strengthen this possibility. The company’s $17 billion acquisition of EchoStar’s wireless spectrum assets paves the way for faster satellite internet on smartphones. SpaceX President Gwynne Shotwell has confirmed that the company is collaborating with chip manufacturers to bring direct satellite connectivity to mobile devices.
Additionally, SpaceX has received approval from the U.S. Federal Communications Commission to operate up to 15,000 second-generation Starlink satellites. These Gen2 satellites promise up to 20 times higher data capacity, lower latency, and seamless direct connections with standard smartphones.
Taken together, these advancements suggest that a collaboration between Apple and SpaceX could redefine mobile connectivity, pushing smartphones one step closer to truly global, always-on communication.
