A recent report indicates that SpaceX is attempting to hinder Apple’s plans for expanding iPhone satellite messaging by exerting pressure on the FCC to intervene.
Elon Musk’s close ties with both the White House and the FCC chair may provide SpaceX with a considerable edge in the ongoing dispute over radio spectrum between the two companies.
Apple’s Satellite Messaging Services
Apple introduced its Emergency SOS via satellite feature for the iPhone 14 in 2022, and it has since become a standard addition to all newer iPhone models. This service allows users to send emergency messages to 911 even in areas lacking mobile coverage.
The service has been credited with saving lives multiple times since its inception.
iPhone satellite communication capabilities have been enhanced on two occasions since its launch. In 2023, a roadside assistance feature was added for users with vehicle issues in remote locations. The following year, Apple introduced Messages via satellite, enabling users to reach out to family and friends without mobile service – a crucial capability during natural disasters that can disrupt mobile networks.
Apple’s satellite service is powered by a partnership with Globalstar, with Apple investing over a billion dollars in the previous year to boost the service.
SpaceX Aims to Block Expansion
As demand for the service grows, Apple requires additional bandwidth, prompting Globalstar to apply to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for authorization to access more radio frequencies.
The Wall Street Journal reports that SpaceX has urged the FCC to postpone this application due to competition over the same frequency bands for its Starlink satellite broadband service.
Apple is in conflict with Elon Musk as they both strive to eliminate cellphone dead zones using satellite technology […]
To increase capacity, both companies are vying for valuable spectrum rights—limited airwaves for transmitting their signals. Sources indicate that Musk has expressed frustration over Apple’s investments in space, prompting SpaceX to lobby federal regulators to stall Apple’s satellite expansion efforts […]
Documents reveal that SpaceX recently requested the FCC to dismiss Globalstar’s application for spectrum rights concerning the new network of Apple-financed satellites, labeling the airwaves that carry Apple’s emergency signals as underutilized resources.
Discussions have occurred regarding providing iPhones with direct access to Starlink connectivity, but Apple has so far remained committed to Globalstar, while allowing access to T-Mobile’s satellite service, which operates via Starlink.
Concerns about Musk’s Close Relationships
Apple may be apprehensive about Musk’s close relationship with Trump, including his private office in the White House, which could potentially sway federal regulatory outcomes such as those from the FCC.
In this situation, there is added cause for concern. Trump appointed Brendan Carr as the new FCC chairman, who is a strong ally of Musk and has previously criticized the agency for not meeting SpaceX’s demands.
Moreover, Globalstar relies on SpaceX for satellite launches, giving Musk another strategic advantage.
Image Credit: NASA
