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Apple and the Future of iPhone: Full 5G Satellite Internet and Foldable Tech

January 8, 2026

Support for Full 5G Satellite Internet in Upcoming iPhones

According to a recent report from The Information, select new iPhone models slated for release next year may support full 5G satellite internet. Apple reportedly plans to incorporate technology that connects iPhones directly to satellites, offering comprehensive internet access beyond traditional cellular networks.

"Apple plans to add support in upcoming iPhones as early as next year for 5G networks that aren't tethered to Earth's surface, which includes satellites," the report indicated. "That would give the iPhone full internet access over satellite."

If these features roll out as scheduled, the earliest compatible models could be the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and the anticipated foldable iPhone, potentially launching in 2026. The standard iPhone 18 might then follow in early 2027.

Current Satellite Connectivity Capabilities and Limitations

Despite these promising developments, full 5G satellite internet remains unavailable for direct use on smartphones today. Apple's satellite features introduced with the iPhone 14 and newer models are currently limited to emergency services, such as Emergency SOS, and device tracking through Find My and Messages, all requiring a clear sky view.

Additionally, services like T-Mobile’s Starlink provide high-speed satellite internet by creating a Wi-Fi hotspot via a satellite dish, rather than directly on phones. In the U.S., Starlink offers plans starting at $50 per month for 50GB of data, with unlimited data costing $165 monthly, and a portable Starlink Mini dish is available for $299.

Long-Term Vision and Potential Partnerships

Apple’s overarching goal appears to be enabling iPhones to connect directly to satellites using full 5G capabilities, sidestepping existing hardware like Starlink dishes. The company currently partners with Globalstar for satellite-based features, while SpaceX’s Starlink service is offered separately.

Possible Collaboration with SpaceX

Recent signals hint at the possibility of renewed collaboration between Apple and SpaceX, despite past tensions. Notably:

  • SpaceX has added support for the same radio spectrum used by Apple’s satellite features.
  • Globalstar’s executive chairman, Jay Monroe, has discussed selling the company for over $10 billion, hinting at potential strategic shifts.
  • Globalstar’s quarterly earnings warn that losing a major client—believed to be Apple—could significantly impact its financial health.

Despite these signals, it remains uncertain if Apple and Musk’s companies can overcome past disagreements to forge a closer partnership for satellite internet.

The Road Ahead

While full satellite connectivity on iPhones is still on the horizon, these developments suggest a future where seamless, global internet access is achievable without relying solely on terrestrial networks or large satellite dishes. The evolution of this technology could fundamentally change how and where we stay connected.

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Note: For more updates on Apple’s technology advancements and upcoming releases, stay tuned to our coverage.