Apple Expands iPhone Satellite Services Deal, Commits $1.1bn for Increased Capacity

Apple has expanded its deal with satellite services provider GlobalStar, committing an additional $1.1 billion for upfront infrastructure prepayments to increase the capacity of satellite services. The company will also take a 20% ownership stake in GlobalStar worth about $400 million. This move suggests Apple's growing plans for iPhone satellite features, such as the ability to send text messages over satellite when outside of cellular or WiFi range. Satellite connectivity first launched with the iPhone 14 in 2022 and is supported on later models.