Elon Musk Wants Apple’s Satellite Ambitions Grounded

Tensions are rising between Elon Musk and Apple as the two tech giants clash over satellite connectivity.

According to The Wall Street Journal, SpaceX is unhappy with Apple’s aggressive push to eliminate “dead zones” by developing its own satellite technology. Apple is investing billions into space-based communications, while SpaceX has already launched over 550 Starlink satellites to provide global mobile internet.

The issue? Both companies are eyeing the same radio frequencies, intensifying the rivalry. SpaceX has reportedly asked U.S. regulators to halt funding for Apple’s satellite projects.

Ironically, the two are also partners. Apple’s iPhones already rely in part on satellites from Globalstar — which are launched by SpaceX. Meanwhile, Apple, T-Mobile, and SpaceX have a deal to bring Starlink support to future iPhones, expanding coverage in remote areas and boosting both phone sales and Starlink adoption.

So while the rivalry heats up, Apple and SpaceX remain entangled in a complex relationship — part competition, part collaboration.