“No Signal? No Problem — iPhone’s Satellite Leap Makes Maps & Messaging Truly Off-Grid”

Satellite connectivity gets real

With the addition of satellite features, the Cupertino-based company Apple is rumored to be moving its emergency use satellite features on the iPhone to the next level. To give a comparison, Apple has provided SOS via satellite for previously, but now the plan is for full satellite-based navigation and communication.

Offline maps become “always on”

What is most outstanding is that in the near future the Apple Maps application may enable offline navigation through a satellite connection which in turn users will get the chance to have access to step-by-step navigation even in the absence of Wi-Fi or cellular signal. Therefore, just like this, it is a huge leap from simply saving maps beforehand.

Photo messaging in the sky

Satellite texting will not be limited to just letters. Apart from text, the capability of sending photos through a satellite may soon be available for a user in an area with no network. Consequently, if you happen to go on a secluded trek and can’t access any network, capturing and sharing moments might not be disrupted.

Natural usage, no sky-spotting needed

One inconvenient situation is that you most of the time have to direct your phone toward the sky to get a signal from a satellite. The upcoming features intend to solve this problem by allowing the support of “natural usage” meaning your phone doesn't necessarily have to be with you, i.e.., in you pocket or bag with which you are connected.

Opening the platform to apps

An integrated feature is not what Apple is thinking of as its next step ― it is working on creating a satellite API that would let third-party apps use satellite connectivity (navigation, safety, travel apps) even if offline.

Business model and infrastructure

This won’t come to pass in a few days. It depends on the planned changes to the satellite network of Globalstar—the company that Apple partially supported with its finances through the years. And while the essential functionalities may be for free, advanced satellite provisions could be charged by carriers or satellite providers in a form of monetisation.

Why this matters for you

Firstly, if one is a traveler who only tours in places where coverage is a problem, then assurance would be navigation & communication even without mobile towers.

Secondly, users living in rural areas or countries with weak signals will benefit most as their iPhone will have longer life expectancy in terms of future compatibility with new technology.

Thirdly, Developers could take full advantage of the satellite API to invent new app-design concepts.

Lastly, for Apple, It's a move to far beyond traditional telecommunication carriers.leap

Final thoughts

The notion of an emergency feature on the iPhone merely for a few people is now shifting towards becoming a feature usable by the majority. The carrying out of the work positively leads to the rearranging of the way we keep communication when power and Internet access are absent through offline maps, photo sharing, and less intervention required for satellite usage. There is no definite time for it but the goal is very ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌clear.