Apple has allocated $1.5 billion to Globalstar, a satellite company that allows iPhones to send and receive messages from hard-to-reach locations. This service can be particularly useful in situations of natural disasters, such as the recent hurricanes that claimed hundreds of lives and caused billions in damage.
Globalstar has partnered with Apple to provide the service free of charge to iPhone users (for two years after activating the device) since the company started offering this feature in 2022. It works similarly to other services, such as SpaceX Starlink, which communicate with one of Globalstar’s satellites in low Earth orbit. However, Globalstar’s service is quite slow – sending even a short text message can take up to 30 seconds, and you need to be outside with a good view of the sky. It’s really only useful in emergency situations. But when you need it, it really comes in handy.
According to CNBC, Apple is Globalstar’s main customer and allocates about 85% of its satellite infrastructure to the company. Presumably, the new funds will allow Globalstar to expand its services to other customers, but in its statement, the company said that Apple will continue to be its main client. The money will be used to acquire more satellites and expand its ground infrastructure. Apple will now own a 20 percent stake in Globalstar.
SpaceX is also expanding its direct communication services by partnering with T-Mobile on a similar service for emergency text messages. The companies recently launched this service in the areas affected by Hurricane Helene, thanks to an emergency authorization from the Federal Communications Commission.
Low Earth orbit allows for much faster service than previous satellite internet services such as Hughesnet. But achieving the highest network speeds requires many satellites in orbit, and a large receiver, such as a Starlink dish, is usually required on the ground.
