If you do not have an iPhone compatible with satellite functions, until now it was not a big problem, however, as time goes by, this system becomes more important, and currently Apple is working on adding new features important to him.
Today we are going to see which models are compatible, and what are those five functions that we could see in a short time, although it will depend on our device, country, etc., as is always the case, and not all of them will be activated globally, at least for now.
New satellite features on iPhone
Apple is working on new satellite connectivity features for the iPhone, according to journalist Mark Gurman. All of them are aimed at allowing the user to perform different actions on their iPhone, despite not having mobile data coverage.
Among the new features stands out the possibility of use Apple Maps via satellitewhich would allow navigation and receiving directions in totally isolated places. It is also studied send photos through the Messages app without coveragetraditional, something useful in emergencies or travel. Another function aims to make the satellite connection work more naturally, even from insidewithout having to point the device to the sky.
Apple is also working on integrating the technology “satellite over 5G“, known as NTN, which would combine mobile towers and satellites to expand global coverage. In addition, it is preparing an API that would allow app developers integrate this connectivity into your applicationsopening the door to innovative uses in communication, rescue or navigation.
For now, there are no plans to enable calling or full web browsing via satellite. Currently, Apple's basic satellite features are free, but paid plans with more “premium” services could be offered in the future, possibly in partnership with companies like SpaceX.
The development of these functions depends in part on the infrastructure of Globalstar, a company with which Apple already collaborates. If SpaceX were to acquire Globalstar, improvements could be implemented more quickly.
In short, Apple seeks to make the iPhone useful even when there is no coverage, making it a more interesting tool than those offered by the competition. These developments point to a future where satellite communication will be a more important part of the mobile experience (and not just for using GPS), especially in remote areas or in critical situationslike the blackout suffered in Spain this year 2025, where many of the communication towers did not work, and where the satellite option became very important, especially if now we can even send messages with photos.
And you, do you think this type of connection is so important? The truth is that it can be very useful, especially with the improvements that have been revealed to us today, however, there are not many situations where there is no coverage, and every day it is more widespread throughout the world, although it is true that, for a hiker, for example, it can even be a savior, the fact of sending a photo, location, or text when they are lost in the mountains, which could even save a life. Leave us a comment if you have ever used it, and what you think of it.
