Apple is reportedly developing a suite of enhanced satellite-powered features for future iPhones, expanding its connectivity ambitions beyond the current emergency-messaging functionalities. According to Reddit user discussions summarising industry chatter, the technology could enable more seamless global coverage, richer messaging and data services via satellite without relying entirely on traditional mobile carriers.
Users on platforms like Reddit’s r/apple and r/GSAT communities anticipate that Apple’s move could disrupt the mobile-network ecosystem, with speculation mounting around which satellite partner the company will join forces with—names such as Globalstar, AST SpaceMobile and Starlink being floated. Some users envision a future where an iPhone functions akin to a satphone, bypassing carriers entirely.
While excitement is high, commenters also flagged potential hurdles including hardware compatibility, pricing models and environmental impact. Questions remain around how Apple might integrate the satellite service into its ecosystem, and whether this represents incremental innovation or a step-change in global connectivity.
Kursiv Uzbekistan also reports that Apple has stopped signing the iOS 26.2 and iPadOS 26.2 beta 1 updates for the iPhone Air, iPhone 16e and cellular M5 iPad Pro, just one day after their release to developers.
