Apple is reportedly developing full 5G satellite internet support for next-generation iPhones, a move that would expand the company’s current satellite capabilities beyond emergency and limited messaging services.
What’s changing
According to a report in The Information, Apple plans to enable iPhones to access 5G networks that are not tethered to Earth’s surface, including low-Earth-orbit and other satellite constellations. If implemented, the feature would provide full internet access over satellite for select iPhone models rather than restricting satellite use to Emergency SOS, Find My, Messages, and Roadside Assistance.
Which iPhones could get it and when
- iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max: Expected to receive full 5G satellite support as early as September 2026 when Apple typically launches its Pro models.
- First foldable iPhone: Reportedly slated to support the same satellite capability alongside the Pro models.
- Standard iPhone 18: The report suggests Apple may delay the standard iPhone 18 until March 2027, and that model could also include satellite internet support at launch.
Satellite partners and industry context
Apple currently uses Globalstar to support its Emergency SOS via satellite feature. The report indicates renewed discussions that could bring SpaceX and its Starlink constellation back into consideration after prior negotiations reportedly fell through. SpaceX is said to be adding support for the radio spectrum Apple uses for its satellite features, and Globalstar has signaled potential vulnerability: its executive chairman has discussed selling the company for more than $10 billion, and the company warned that losing a major customer could materially harm its finances.
Tensions between Apple and SpaceX
Relations between Apple and SpaceX have been strained this year. Elon Musk publicly criticized Apple’s App Store practices and later filed legal action involving Apple and other companies. Musk has also questioned Apple’s choice of AI providers for Siri. Those disputes add complexity to any potential commercial arrangement between Apple and SpaceX, but the new report suggests negotiations could resume.
Significance
Full 5G satellite internet on iPhones would mark a major expansion of consumer satellite connectivity, enabling true internet access off-grid and during network outages. Implementation would depend on device hardware, regulatory approvals, and agreements with satellite operators, and it could reshape how users access data in remote or emergency scenarios.
