iPhone 18 Pro could get satellite 5G from SpaceX

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The iPhone 18 Pro could mark the next major development in the smartphone world. A recent report suggests that Apple plans to integrate satellite 5G into the upcoming model. This is made possible by a rapprochement between Apple and SpaceX, the operator of the Starlink satellite internet network. Although there is no official agreement between the two companies yet, technical and commercial developments are emerging that make a collaboration likely.

Apple has been working for years to make its devices less dependent on traditional cellular networks. It's already taken a step in this direction with the Emergency SOS feature via satellite, first introduced in the iPhone 14. This feature uses Globalstar's satellite network to call for help or share your location outside of cellular coverage. With the iPhone 18 Pro, Apple could take the next step and enable regular 5G connections via satellite—a feature that would largely eliminate the need for traditional network boundaries.

Starlink as a possible partner

The Information report , written by Aaron Tilley and Wayne Ma, cites two reasons why a collaboration between Apple and SpaceX is realistic. First, SpaceX supports the same frequency spectrum in the new Starlink satellite designs that Apple currently uses for satellite functions via Globalstar. This is crucial because it lays a technical foundation that would allow iPhones to communicate directly with Starlink in the future.

Second, it's reported that Globalstar Chairman James Monroe is considering selling the company for approximately $10 billion. Such a sale could change the relationship between Apple and Globalstar and position Apple to operate more independently. If it goes ahead, it would pave the way for new partnerships, such as with SpaceX.

From emergency function to global network

Apple has been using satellite connections for emergency situations since the iPhone 14. Users can use these connections to contact emergency services or share their location, even when a cellular network is unavailable. This system is based on a collaboration with Globalstar. However, satellite communications will no longer be limited to emergencies in the future. According to The Information, Apple plans to introduce iPhones with support for 5G networks that are not tethered to Earth's surface as early as next year. This would mean that the iPhone 18 Pro could establish regular data connections via satellite—true 5G from space.

In parallel, SpaceX signed an agreement with EchoStar last month to acquire spectrum valued at $17 billion. This spectrum will be used for direct connections between satellites and mobile devices. This is preparing SpaceX technically and strategically for a future in which smartphones and satellites work seamlessly together.

Strategic interests and market movements

Apple has reportedly rejected a direct deal with SpaceX to use Starlink as a satellite partner for the iPhone. However, that could change. The new frequency adjustments and planned hardware support indicate that Apple is seriously considering the possibility of satellite 5G integration in the iPhone 18 Pro.

The starting point is interesting for both companies: SpaceX could gain access to millions of potential devices through Apple, while Apple could offer global network coverage with Starlink that goes far beyond the capabilities of traditional mobile providers. So far, SpaceX offers its Starlink service primarily for homes, vehicles, and ships. In addition, a limited mobile connection already exists via T-Mobile's T-Satellite service. Direct integration into the iPhone system would be the next logical step.

A new chapter in mobile communications

If current reports prove true, the iPhone 18 Pro will be more than just another update to the well-known iPhone series. With satellite 5G, Apple could lay the foundation for a new form of global communication – independent of cell towers and network coverage. This development would not only represent a technological advancement but also a strategic shift in the mobile communications market.

The iPhone 18 Pro could thus become the first device to offer regular 5G via satellite. For users, this would mean stable connections even in remote areas. For Apple, it would be an important step toward expanding control over its own connectivity and further reducing its dependence on traditional network operators.

Is the iPhone 18 Pro the start of a new internet era?

The iPhone 18 Pro is at the center of a potential revolution in smartphone communications. Thanks to the technological advances at SpaceX and the market movements surrounding Globalstar, Apple could soon unveil a new generation of iPhones connected directly to the internet via satellite. If Apple actually implements satellite 5G support, the iPhone 18 Pro would not just be a technical upgrade—it would mark the beginning of a new era of mobile connectivity. (Image: Shutterstock / Paopano)