Apple is reportedly developing five new features that expand its satellite connectivity capabilities.
According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, one of the upcoming additions could integrate satellite support into Apple Maps, allowing users to access navigation tools even without cellular data or Wi-Fi. Combined with the existing Emergency SOS via satellite, this enhancement could be especially useful for people traveling or stranded in remote areas.
Another planned feature would enable users to send photos through iMessage using a satellite connection. While Apple already supports text messaging over satellite, it currently doesn’t allow image sharing — something already possible through SpaceX’s Starlink service with T-Mobile.
The report also mentions that Apple intends to introduce 5G NTN (non-terrestrial network) technology with the iPhone 18 lineup in 2026. As noted by The Information, this advancement would allow the phones to maintain connectivity by linking to satellites when standard cell tower signals are weak or unavailable.
Additionally, Apple is said to be exploring new developer tools that would let third-party apps make use of satellite functions — a capability that rival platforms such as T-Satellite already provide.
The fifth improvement involves what Gurman describes as “natural usage” updates. These would make satellite communication more seamless, removing the need to point the iPhone toward the sky for a connection. Users might be able to stay connected even while inside vehicles, buildings, or with the phone in their pocket.
However, Gurman’s report clarifies that Apple has no immediate plans to enable phone calls, video chats, or web browsing via satellite. For now, these developments remain unconfirmed until Apple makes an official announcement. It’s also uncertain when these features will roll out — and whether Apple will eventually charge for some of them, unlike its current free satellite-based services.
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