Apple is dialing up its satellite game! 📡 The tech giant is investing a whopping $1.5 billion in Globalstar, aiming to boost its iPhone satellite communication services. 🌐 This cash infusion is set to help Globalstar develop new satellites and upgrade ground infrastructure, making it easier for Apple users to stay connected, even in the most remote corners of the world. 🗺️
So, what's the deal? 🤔 Apple is putting in $1.1 billion in cash and snagging a 20% equity stake in Globalstar for $400 million. A part of this investment will help Globalstar pay down its existing debt. In return, Globalstar is dedicating 85% of its network capacity exclusively to Apple. Talk about a solid partnership! 🤝
You might remember that Apple and Globalstar teamed up back in 2022 to let iPhone users send emergency messages via satellite when they're off the grid. 🆘 Now, owners of the latest iPhones—iPhone 14, iPhone 15, and the shiny new iPhone 16—can use the Emergency SOS feature to reach out for help, thanks to Globalstar's satellites. And guess what? Apple just expanded this feature to include text messages, too! 📲
While neither company is spilling the tea on specific future services, this move is a clear sign that Apple is all-in on satellite connectivity. 🌠 With Globalstar planning to launch up to 26 new low Earth orbit satellites, the sky's literally the limit! 🚀
Apple isn't alone in this space race. 🚀 Other tech titans like Google, T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T are also jumping on the satellite bandwagon. T-Mobile has partnered with SpaceX's Starlink to send emergency messages during hurricanes, while Verizon and AT&T are teaming up with Amazon's Project Kuiper and AST SpaceMobile, respectively. It's a wild time in the world of space-based connectivity! 🌌
Buckle up, folks! With all these developments, staying connected anywhere on Earth—or maybe even beyond—is becoming more than just a dream. 🌍✨
Reference(s):
Apple invests $1.5 billion in Globalstar to boost satellite services
cgtn.com
