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2d ago

Apple Reconsiders Free Satellite Connectivity Over Rising Costs and Regulation Risks

Apple has extended complimentary satellite SOS support through September 2025 as executives weigh ending the feature to avoid hundreds of millions in annual network fees plus potential carrier regulation.

iPhone 13 will reportedly be able to use satellites to exchange calls and texts.
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Overview

  • Project Eagle began in 2015 as a partnership with Boeing to beam full internet service to iPhones and homes but was canceled in 2016 over telecom partnership concerns and high costs.
  • In 2022, Apple launched Emergency SOS via Satellite with Globalstar and turned down Elon Musk’s exclusive $5 billion Starlink proposal due to fears of government telecom oversight.
  • Apple has kept its satellite SOS feature free for users and will cover the network’s hundreds of millions in yearly fees until at least September 2025.
  • Senior leaders including Craig Federighi and Adrian Perica have advocated discontinuing the service, arguing customers can obtain satellite options through their wireless carriers.
  • With rivals like SpaceX’s Starlink expanding and regulatory thresholds on the horizon, Apple is re-evaluating any expansion beyond niche emergency messaging.