tech giant Applehas expanded its investment in GlobalStar for the satellite connection support it offers on iPhones.
By connecting the iPhone 14 series and later new iPhone models to a satellite in supported countries, you can send messages to emergency services, request roadside assistance, send messages to your friends and family, or share your location. This infrastructure, which does not require cellular connection or Wi-Fi, It is powered by the collaboration established between Apple and GlobalStar, and this collaboration is strengthened for the future. According to the statement made today, Apple will provide additional infrastructure support of $1.1 billion to GlobalStar to increase the capacity of its satellite services. In addition, Apple will own a 20 percent stake in GlobalStar in an all-stock deal valued at approximately $400 million. The system attracted attention with its great benefits during Hurricane Helene, which last hit the USA. When their communication infrastructure collapsed due to the hurricane, many people contacted their relatives via satellite. Here, especially with iOS 18, ““Messages via Satellite feature” came forward.
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On this subject, Apple stated the following: “Powered by the same breakthrough technology as existing iPhone satellite features, Messages via Satellite directs users to automatically connect to the nearest satellite directly from the Messages app. Thus, it becomes possible to send and receive text messages, emojis and Tapbacks via iMessage and SMS. Users can see at any time whether they are connected to a satellite on Dynamic Island. Since iMessage was developed to protect user privacy, iMessage messages sent via satellite are end-to-end encrypted.”
I’ve never been more thankful to be an iPhone user.
Due to the lack of cell service, EVERYONE in Asheville NC right now on iOS 18 has been able to get messages out and in with the Satellite messaging feature.
This is literally saving lives @apple. pic.twitter.com/k0FOIgKlRk
— Matt Van Swol (@matt_vanswol) September 30, 2024
Apple’s chief operating officer Jeff Williams, “Emergency SOS via satellite is a perfect example of how American ingenuity and technology can save lives.” he says and adds: “We are proud that this service is provided by leading companies in the United States and that our users can explore off-grid areas knowing they can reach emergency services if they need it.”
Apple provided the basic information you need to know about the emergency SOS feature via satellite years ago as follows: had conveyed: “The iPhone 14 product series also offers the Emergency SOS feature via satellite. This feature combines special components that are deeply integrated with software, allowing antennas to be connected directly to the satellite. This allows you to send a message to the emergency call center when out of cellular network or Wi-Fi coverage. Since satellites are moving targets with low bandwidth, messages can take minutes to be delivered.
Since every second is crucial, iPhone, thanks to its Emergency SOS via satellite feature, pre-loads a few vital questions that evaluate the user’s situation and shows him which way he should point his phone to connect to the satellite. The initial questions and follow-up messages are then forwarded to centers staffed by expert employees who have received training from Apple and can seek help on the user’s behalf.
This groundbreaking technology allows users to find their location using the Find feature in situations where there is no cellular or Wi-Fi connection. It also allows them to share the location manually via satellite. “This gives a sense of security when hiking or camping in places where there is no network connection.”