Apple is developing several new satellite-based features for the iPhone, including an API for third-party apps, offline Maps support, and the ability to send photos, according to a newsletter from Mark Gurman to subscribers. The work is part of a broader, decade-long effort to expand the iPhone’s connectivity beyond traditional cellular networks.

The work is being managed by Apple’s in-house Satellite Connectivity Group, led by hardware engineering director Mike Trela. The team, working on a project once codenamed “Stewie,” is building a framework that will let developers add satellite connections to their own apps. Apple is also eyeing satellite support for Apple Maps, which would let users navigate without Wi-Fi or cellular access, and is developing enhanced messaging that would support photos in addition to text.

Another major focus is on improving “natural usage,” a term for letting users stay connected even when their iPhone is in a pocket or indoors. Apple also plans to support 5G NTN in next year’s iPhones, a standard that allows cellular towers to tap satellites for increased coverage.

The report notes that Apple’s long-term strategy for satellites mirrors its approach to other ambitious projects, like the Apple Watch and Vision Pro, where a grand vision is scaled back for a more practical initial launch. The company’s initial, more radical idea of replacing cellular networks entirely was refined into the more practical Emergency SOS feature introduced with the iPhone 14.

Since then, Apple has steadily added capabilities, including roadside assistance and off-grid two-way texting beyond emergencies. The feature was recently extended to the new Apple Watch Ultra 3. Gurman also notes Apple has discussed adding the feature to its iPads via its new in-house modems, though nothing is imminent.

According to Gurman, Apple’s rationale for building its own service is to maintain control over the user experience, ensure privacy, and provide global reach beyond what individual carriers can offer. The company’s satellite protocols are also reportedly tailored to its partner Globalstar’s network, making a switch to other providers difficult and motivating further in-house development.

Bringing these new features to market will require significant upgrades to the satellite infrastructure run by its partner, Globalstar Inc. Gurman notes that while Globalstar’s network is aging, a potential acquisition by SpaceX could accelerate those improvements, though it would also force Apple to rethink its business model.

For now, Apple’s strategy is to offer its core satellite features for free as a way to drive iPhone sales and keep users in its ecosystem. However, Gurman notes that for more advanced capabilities, the company could eventually let customers pay carriers or other providers like SpaceX directly, potentially creating a new paid tier for extended connectivity. Apple reportedly has no current plans to enable phone calls, video chats, or web browsing via satellite.

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