Eric Slivka
Globalstar today announced an amendment to its agreement with Apple that will expand the range of satellite services that support Apple features such as Emergency SOS, Roadside Assistance, Messages, and Find My location updates to areas without terrestrial Wi-Fi or cellular coverage in certain countries.
According to an SEC filing from Globalstar, which is Apple’s existing satellite services partner, Globalstar will provide Apple with a number of enhancements, including a new satellite constellation, expanded ground infrastructure to support Apple’s satellites and services, and expanded global licensing for new satellite services.
In exchange, Apple will make upfront payments of up to $1.1 billion to support the construction and launch of new satellites and other expenses. Apple will also receive a passive 20% stake in Globalstar, valued at $400 million.
Apple's satellite services debuted in late 2022 on iPhone 14 models with the launch of Emergency SOS and Find My location updates via satellite in the U.S. and Canada, allowing users in remote areas to contact emergency services via text message. Over time, Apple's satellite services have expanded to more countries and added new features, including Roadside Assistance in late 2023, and with iOS 18 this year, users can now communicate with others using iMessage and text messages via satellite, even in non-emergency situations.
When Apple launched its initial satellite services in 2022, the company said the services would be offered for free for the first two years after purchasing a compatible phone, with a fee required to continue using them after that. However, Apple has extended the free service period and has not yet started charging fees. It is unclear at this time if or when Apple will start charging for using satellite services, or what the fees will be.
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