Overview
- Apple confirmed Emergency SOS via satellite is now live in Mexico, available on iPhone 14 and later and Apple Watch Ultra 3.
- Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reports Apple is developing five additions: satellite-powered Apple Maps, photo-capable Messages, a third‑party API, more “natural” connectivity, and future 5G NTN support.
- Planned capabilities aim to keep iPhones connected without a clear sky view, including in pockets, vehicles, or indoors, moving beyond today’s emergency-only workflows.
- Many upgrades rely on expanded capacity at partner Globalstar, which Apple is helping finance, with industry reporting noting SpaceX’s early interest in Globalstar that could speed deployment if a deal occurs.
- Apple is not planning phone or video calls or web browsing over satellite in the near term, and advanced services could be paid through carriers or providers even as core features remain free today.