According to the most recent Power On newsletter, the iPhone could gain additional satellite functionalities beyond emergency calls and messaging. Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman has indicated that Apple intends to broaden the satellite options currently offered on its iPhones.
Apple launched the Messages via Satellite service last year, enabling text exchanges, and now appears set to augment it by adding photo transmission. In addition to messaging, the company aims to incorporate 5G NTN technology into iPhones, which would permit cellular towers to extend their reach using satellite signals, as per Gurman's insights. For users seeking navigation guidance in isolated locations lacking mobile or wireless networks, Apple is said to be developing satellite integration for Apple Maps.
These enhancements also include efforts to refine everyday satellite interactions, allowing connections without the need to aim the device at the sky. This could mean maintaining links in settings like indoors where sky visibility is obstructed. Furthermore, Gurman noted that Apple is creating an API to enable developers to incorporate satellite connectivity into their applications.
No specific launch schedule exists for these anticipated satellite additions, though Apple has historically taken about two years to roll out expansions, such as from the 2022 debut of Emergency SOS via Satellite to the iOS 18 introduction of Messages via Satellite.