Apple Wants to Bring Satellite Maps for iPhone and Watch Users

Tuesday, 11 November 2025 at 03:51

Apple is slowly building a bigger plan for satellite features on the iPhone and Apple Watch. Some of these upgrades are still far away, but Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman says Apple already knows exactly what it wants. The only catch is that Globalstar’s satellite network needs major upgrades before any of this can happen.

Apple Has Ambitious Plans For Its Satellite System

Apple’s most ambitious idea is satellite maps. This would let iPhone and Apple Watch users open Apple Maps and navigate even in places where there is no cellular signal. Apple is also working on an API so developers can add satellite features to their apps without having to wait for Apple to do it first.

The Brand Wants to Reduce Annoyances and Enhance Reliability

Another goal is to remove the awkward part of pointing your phone at the sky to connect. Apple wants future iPhones to lock onto satellites more naturally. That means satellite service could work indoors and even while the phone stays in your pocket.

Next year’s iPhone 18 series is expected to take a big step with support for 5G Non-Terrestrial Networks. This technology allows carriers to reach satellites directly and create wider coverage. It could reduce dead zones and help users stay connected during travel, natural disasters, or rural situations. It may also improve call stability and emergency communication.

Read also

Furthermore, Apple is also exploring richer satellite messaging. The company wants users to send and receive photos using satellite mode, not just text messages. Apple started this satellite push with the iPhone 14 series, and while the momentum is strong, the report says not everyone inside Apple agrees on how far the company should go. Satellite service is usually managed by carriers, so Apple is stepping into territory that is not traditionally its own.

In Summary:

Apple is planning a long list of satellite upgrades for iPhone and Apple Watch

Most new features depend on Globalstar improving its satellite network

Satellite maps will allow navigation with zero cellular signal

Apple is building an API so apps can use satellite connectivity.
Future iPhones may lock onto satellites indoors and inside pockets

Apple wants satellite features to work automatically without aiming the phone

iPhone 18 is expected to support 5G NTN for wider network coverage

Apple is testing the ability to send and receive photos through satellite mode

The satellite project started with the iPhone 14 series

Some Apple teams are unsure how far the company should move into satellite tech

Satellite features aim to improve safety, travel, and communication in remote areas

The Bottom Line

Apple's Satellite system may not be the most buzzing feature for general users, but it certainly marked the industry in terms of innovation. Since its launch, it has greatly helped people and even saved the lives of many, preventing major casualties in extreme circumstances. It's great to see that the company aims to further improve this technology, make it more reliable, and enhance its use.

Obviously, this is a win-win for both the company and consumers. Other brands will likely follow suit.