Apple and SpaceX: The Future of Starlink Connectivity on iPhones

Apple and SpaceX may not currently have a formal agreement to bring Starlink satellite internet directly to iPhones, but recent developments suggest that could soon change. As satellite-based communications become more integral to mobile technology, both companies appear to be aligning infrastructure and strategic interests that could make seamless satellite connectivity for all iPhone users a reality. Beyond partnerships, the next-generation iPhone 18 Pro could also bring hardware changes that make this vision more tangible.

Recent reporting by Aaron Tilley and Wayne Ma for The Information reveals two significant factors that may pave the way for iPhones to fully integrate Starlink connectivity, expanding beyond the limited T-Mobile customer base. The first point concerns spectrum alignment. SpaceX is reportedly designing new Starlink satellites to support the same radio frequencies that Apple currently uses through its Globalstar partnership. Apple’s Emergency SOS via satellite feature on the iPhone 14 and newer models, as well as the Apple Watch Ultra 3, relies on Globalstar satellites to enable users to contact emergency services and share location data even when outside traditional cell coverage.

The second factor revolves around corporate strategy. Globalstar’s chairman, James Monroe, has reportedly expressed interest in selling the company for $10 billion. This potential sale could indicate a desire from both Globalstar and Apple to gain more operational independence, which may open doors for Apple to explore other satellite service providers such as Starlink. Historically, Apple has declined to formalize a deal