Apple pays Globalstar to provide the satellites needed for the iPhone’s Messages via satellite service, and an updated agreement between the two companies includes a $1.1 billion payment for the infrastructure.
Clearly, this is an iPhone feature that’ll be available for years to come.
Apple goes all-in on satellite messaging
In the same way that texting over cellular networks requires cell towers, the iPhone’s Messages via satellite service requires satellites. That’s not rocket science.
An agreement announced Friday provides for “Globalstar to deliver expanded services to Customer over a new mobile satellite services (MSS) network, including a new satellite constellation, expanded ground infrastructure, and increased global MSS licensing.” The “Customer” in this case is Apple.
The iPhone-maker will pay Globalstar up to $1.1 billion to make and launch the necessary satellites.
iPhone Messages via satellite keeps you in touch no matter what
Emergency SOS via satellite, which debuted with the iPhone 14, saved the lives of people who had no other way to communicate, like lost hikers. iOS 18 added Messages via satellite, which lets users of recent iPhone models keep in touch with family and friends when they’re out of range of a cell tower. The new functionality made Cult of Mac‘s list of the top five best new Messages features in iOS 18.
Unlike the original emergency-only version of the service, the new one isn’t limited as to what information can be exchanged. It lets users send and receive texts, emojis, and Tapbacks over iMessage and SMS.
You need to be outside with a clear view of the sky and horizon to use the new features. Pro tip: Review Apple’s instructions for connecting to a satellite now so you know what to do in an emergency.
The service is currently free, but not for Apple. So don’t be surprised when Apple eventually starts charging for Messages via satellite.
David Snow contributed to this article.
