Starlink deal worth $5 billion proposed by Elon Musk has been reportedly denied by Apple.
In the tech world, rumours of Apple's ambitions often spark intrigue. One such project, known as Project Eagle, made headlines a few years ago. This internal Apple effort, in collaboration with Boeing, aimed to revolutionise internet connectivity by launching thousands of Boeing satellites to beam internet directly to Apple devices and homes.
The plan was ambitious, involving the use of window-mounted antennas for home users to spread the signal indoors. However, Project Eagle ultimately met its demise, with no clear reason given for its shelving. Some speculate that it may have strained Apple's long-standing partnerships with telecom carriers.
Interestingly, around the same time, Elon Musk's SpaceX made an offer to Apple. Musk threatened to launch a similar feature independently if Apple did not accept the deal within 72 hours. This offer came just weeks before Apple unveiled the iPhone 14, adding an element of timing to the story.
Despite SpaceX's offer, Apple's satellite endeavours took a different turn. Instead of pursuing full satellite internet, Apple focused on enabling users to send standard iMessage texts when off-grid. This marked a shift away from broadband internet and towards a more limited satellite messaging service.
In 2015, Apple explored building its own satellite internet service. However, the company has since chosen to partner strategically with Globalstar, investing heavily in their satellite network to support limited satellite messaging for iPhones. Apple currently holds a significant stake in Globalstar and funded the launch of 50 new satellites planned for 2025–2026 to enhance this service.
The current status is an enhanced satellite messaging service on iOS 18, enabling texting when out of cellular or Wi-Fi coverage. New satellites are set to launch soon, aiming to improve this capability. Notably, Apple keeps its satellite network closed to other providers, tethering its satellite messaging exclusively through Globalstar.
In contrast to Apple's approach, companies like Starlink provide full satellite internet and direct-to-cell services. As of now, Apple has not signalled plans to offer full satellite internet like Starlink or to open its network to third-party satellite providers.
The future of satellite connectivity in the tech industry continues to evolve, with T-Mobile and Starlink's Direct-to-Cell services poised to expand globally. As for Apple, its satellite efforts are primarily aimed at enabling users to send standard iMessages when off-grid, expanding beyond emergency use. Whether Project Eagle will see a revival remains to be seen.
[References] [1] The Information, [Date of Publication Unknown] [2] MacRumors, [Date of Publication Unknown]
- Even though Apple's initial satellite project, Project Eagle, faced termination, Apple later chose to delve into satellite technology, partnering with Globalstar to create a limited satellite messaging service for iPhones in 2015.
- In the realm of finance and technology, it's worth noting that Apple has invested heavily in Globalstar's satellite network, currently holding a substantial stake and funding the launch of new satellites for improved messaging services by 2025–2026.
