SpaceX to Enhance Apple iPhone 14’s SOS Satellite Service
Apple introduced the iPhone 14 nearly a year ago, unveiling a unique feature known as “Emergency SOS via Satellite.” This handy functionality enables individuals to seek assistance in locations where conventional cellular signals are absent. A recent collaboration between Globalstar, Apple’s satellite provider, and Elon Musk’s SpaceX suggests that this emergency service could potentially expand its coverage to additional regions.
Globalstar joins forces with SpaceX
According to a report by NOLA.com, Globalstar and SpaceX have entered into a $64 million deal to launch satellites into space in 2025. This exciting news was confirmed in an official filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These satellites are very important to expand the emergency services provided by Globalstar.
This is not the first time SpaceX has partnered with Globalstar. They collaborated before the satellite was launched from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida last year.
Good news for Apple users
The partnership between Globalstar and SpaceX isn’t just good for them; it’s great news for Apple users as well. The iPhone 14 (and the soon-to-be iPhone 15) relies on Globalstar satellites to make the Emergency SOS feature work.
Currently, Emergency by Satellite works in several countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Ireland, Austria, Belgium, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and Portugal. It’s available on any iPhone 14 or iPhone 14 Pro, as long as you’re in satellite coverage. Thanks to the new partnership, the service can soon expand to even more locations.
Apple’s satellite dreams
Last year, Apple received a patent that hinted at exciting possibilities for satellites. They may not just be 911 calls and text messages. The patent talks about transmitting all kinds of data via satellites, such as streaming video, TV data, phone calls, and Internet data.
Getting a patent doesn’t mean Apple will definitely do these things, but it shows they’re thinking about it. So who knows what cool satellite features might come with future iPhones.
