A recent report indicates that SpaceX is attempting to thwart Apple’s plans for an expanded satellite messaging system by urging the FCC to take action.
Elon Musk’s strong connections with both the White House and the FCC chairman may provide SpaceX with a significant edge in the ongoing competition between the two companies for radio spectrum rights…
Apple’s satellite messaging services
Apple’s Emergency SOS via satellite feature was first introduced for the iPhone 14 in 2022 and is now a standard offering in newer models. This technology allows users to send messages to 911 in areas lacking mobile coverage.
The service has been credited with numerous life-saving incidents since its inception.
The functionality of iPhone satellite communications has been enhanced twice since launch. In 2023, roadside assistance was added for users experiencing vehicle issues in remote locations. The following year, Apple introduced Messages via satellite, enabling users to reach out to family and friends even when mobile service is unavailable—this feature is particularly useful during natural disasters that disrupt mobile networks.
Apple’s satellite connectivity is facilitated through a partnership with Globalstar, and last year, Apple invested over a billion dollars to help expand the service.
SpaceX’s attempts to hinder expansion
As demand surges, Apple requires additional bandwidth for its service, prompting Globalstar to request the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for permission to access more radio frequencies.
The Wall Street Journal reports that SpaceX has urged the FCC to postpone this request as it is vying for the same frequencies for its Starlink satellite broadband service.
Apple is encountering resistance from Elon Musk in its efforts to eliminate cellphone dead zones using satellite technology […]
To increase capacity, both companies are fighting for valuable spectrum rights—limited airwaves needed to transmit their signals. Musk’s displeasure has been noted regarding Apple’s investments in space, according to sources. SpaceX has pressured federal regulators to halt Apple’s satellite expansion initiative, funded by them […]
Recently, SpaceX requested that the Federal Communications Commission reject a Globalstar application seeking authorization to use specific spectrum for the new network of Apple-funded satellites, claiming that the airwaves utilized for transmitting emergency signals for Apple users are underutilized.
The two companies have discussed the possibility of providing iPhones with direct access to Starlink connectivity, but thus far, Apple has remained with Globalstar—although it has permitted access to T-Mobile’s satellite cellphone service, which utilizes Starlink.
Concerns about Musk’s close relationships
Apple may be apprehensive about Musk’s close ties to Trump, including his former role in the White House, which could impact federal regulators like the FCC.
Moreover, there is a heightened concern due to Trump’s appointment of a new FCC chairman, Brendan Carr, a close ally of Musk, who has previously criticized the agency for not meeting SpaceX’s demands.
Additionally, Globalstar depends on SpaceX for satellite launches, providing another potential leverage point for Musk.
Photo: NASA
