Apple iPhones Gain True Network Redundancy As AT&T, T-Mobile, And Verizon Bury The Hatchet To Form A Satellite Coalition Rohail Saleem • at EDT Add on Google Apple iPhones will soon be able to stay connected throughout the continental US, and not just via Globalstar's limited 'Emergency SOS' service, as all three major carriers have now reached a landmark agreement to eliminate network dead zones by leveraging Direct-to-Device (D2D) satellite-based connectivity. Apple iPhones to benefit as AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon form a JV to eliminate dead zones via satellites As mentioned earlier, AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon have now formed a joint venture that will leverage satellite-based D2D connectivity to "address coverage gaps, especially in unserved and underserved communities." Related Story Apple’s Refusal To Join The AI CapEx Arms Race Is Actually Its Smartest Move, Argues One Analyst As Mag 7 Rivals Burn BillionsThrough this JV, the three carriers will make coordinated investments to rapidly expand D2D satellite coverage, allowing customers with supported phones, including the Apple iPhone, to experience seamless connectivity. Verizon's CEO noted in the press release: "We are not just closing gaps on a map, we are building resilient digital infrastructure that meets the changing needs of our customers, no matter where life takes them." Do note that Apple currently uses Globalstar's satellite connectivity for its 'Emergency SOS' and Roadside Assistance services, which allow users (iPhone 14 and up, as well as Apple Watch Ultra 3) to contact emergency services when outside of cellular and Wi-Fi coverage. Apple's Find My app can leverage satellite-based connectivity to update and share location. The tie-up with Globalstar also enables iPhone users to exchange messages with personal contacts and first responders. Of course, Amazon is now acquiring Globalstar's constellation of LEO satellites. Meanwhile, Apple plans to significantly ramp up the D2D capabilities of its iPhones by bringing satellite-based navigation and connectivity to Apple Maps, upgrading its Messages app to support text messages as well as RCS ones sent via satellites, implementing hardware upgrades to allow users to maintain satellite connectivity even indoors, where a line-of-sight connection to a supported satellite is generally not possible, bringing support for 5G Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) technology, which allows cell towers to use satellites to extend their coverage, and furnishing a dedicated API for developers to incorporate satellite connectivity within their apps. About the : Writing is my one incontrovertible passion. Over the past six years, he has authored over 2,200 distinct articles on financial and tech-related topics, spanning nearly 1 million words. And he has been a member of Wcctech mobile team since 2025. As an alumnus of the University of Toronto, Rotman Commerce Program, I bring nuance, in-depth knowledge, and a unique perspective to every topic that I cover. When I'm not writing, I'm traveling the world, exploring hidden confectionaries and restaurants as an aspiring food connoisseur. Follow on Google to get more of our news coverage in your feeds. Further Reading Apple’s Quad-Curved Display Design For The iPhone 20 Has A Major Flaw, But The Company Isn’t Going To Fix It Next Year Qualcomm & MediaTek Have A Stronger 2nm Base To Beat Apple This Year, But Architectural Improvements Will Also Decide The Outcome MacBook Neo Has Turned Into An Impulse Purchase For Buyers, As Those Going For A Separate Device Repair Have Ended Up Purchasing It Apple Taps Intel 18A-P For M7 Chip By 2027 & 14A For iPhone Chip By 2028, Claims Rumor Read all on Apple iPhones Gain True Network Redundancy As AT&T, T-Mobile, And Verizon Bury The Hatchet To Form A Satellite Coalition
