Did you know Apple holds most of your satellite SMS messages until you’re back on cellular? That’s just one detail from Apple’s updated Platform Security Guide, which now covers quantum cryptography, device unlocking, and the MacBook Neo’s camera indicator.
Apple has quietly extended free satellite features for iPhone 14 and 15 users for another year, suggesting that the company continues to view satellite connectivity as an ecosystem enhancement rather than a revenue source.
T-Mobile’s new T-Satellite service brings Starlink-powered satellite communications to both iPhone and Android users, but Apple’s free satellite features likely already satisfy most iPhone users’ needs.
Apple is using more of its excess cash to secure the future of its satellite services with Globalstar.
The ability to communicate while outside cellular coverage using Messages via satellite is so useful that Adam Engst recommends everyone with an iPhone 14 or later upgrade to iOS 18 for disaster preparedness—especially if you’re in Hurricane Alley.
Apple promised its Emergency SOS via satellite service would be free for two years when it launched for the iPhone 14 lineup in November 2022. The company has now given itself more time to figure out how to charge by extending free service through November 2025.
Sure, Apple announced the iPhone 15, Apple Watch Series 9, and Apple Watch Ultra 2 at its Wonderlust event on 12 September 2023. But we weren’t expecting these additional announcements.
Five people trapped in a van during the Maui wildfires were able to use the iPhone 14's Emergency SOS via satellite feature to coordinate a rescue by emergency responders.
Apple has released a list of enhancements coming to Apple services with the next versions of its operating systems.
In which Adam Engst drives to a nearby deep valley where there’s no cellular connectivity to test Find My via satellite and run through the Emergency SOS via satellite demo in a real-world situation. It seemingly worked but revealed a gap in Apple’s approach.
How did Apple enable the iPhone 14 lineup to communicate with satellites in low-earth orbit? Through extremely complex engineering and the investment of large quantities of money in satellite company Globalstar.