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AppleSpaceX Satellite 5G Prospects Rise With Reported iPhone 18 Support

New reporting says aligned spectrum plus planned device support lower technical barriers to a potential AppleSpaceX arrangement.

Overview

  • The Information reports Apple plans to enable non‑terrestrial 5G in some 2026 iPhones, potentially allowing full internet access via satellite.
  • SpaceX has begun designing Starlink satellites to use the same Globalstar spectrum Apple devices already employ for Emergency SOS, reducing compatibility hurdles.
  • SpaceX recently agreed to acquire roughly $17 billion in EchoStar spectrum to strengthen its direct‑to‑phone connectivity ambitions.
  • Globalstar’s chairman has discussed a possible sale around $10 billion, and filings warn that the loss of a major customer would materially hurt finances.
  • No partnership has been announced, and current options remain limited to Apple’s emergency‑focused Globalstar features and carrier‑mediated Starlink access like T‑Mobile’s service.