Apple May Introduce Satellite Connectivity Feature for iPhone 14

Apple may unveil a satellite communications feature for the iPhone 14 next month, according to Tim Farrar, a satellite communications consultant with California-based research firm Telecom, Media and Finance Associates.

Farrar tweeted that T-Mobile and SpaceX's satellite announcement was made to get ahead of Apple with its own satellite feature for the iPhone in partnership with Globalstar.

Recall that Apple will hold a media event at the Steve Jobs Theatre on 7 September under the slogan "Far Out" with an illustration of the starry sky, which has sparked speculation from users and analysts.

Farrar believes that Apple's service will be free for two-way text messaging only at launch and will use existing satellite spectrum, without the need for changes to FCC rules.

In February, Globalstar announced the acquisition of 17 new satellites to provide uninterrupted satellite services "to a potential customer", which could be Apple.

Bloomberg's Mark Gurman previously reported that Apple was working on satellite connectivity for the iPhone and that it could be ready for iPhone 14 later this year. Gurman said the feature would be for use in emergency situations. According to him, a special modem chip will be required to connect to the iPhone's satellites, so the feature may only be compatible with the iPhone 14 and newer models.

Further details about Apple's satellite connectivity feature, such as whether it will only be available in the US or globally, are not yet known.