The iPhone 17 series is just a month old, but that’s not stopping the rumor mill from shedding light on next year’s models, presumably the iPhone 18. A recent report suggested that the A20 chip may lead to a significant price increase for the iPhone 18 models. That’s not all, a new report now suggests that the iPhone 18 Pro may gain satellite 5G connectivity. Apple may reportedly bring hardware changes next year.

iPhone 18 Pro may offer satellite 5G

A new report from The Information includes details that could hint at all iPhones, in the future, working with Elon Musk’s Starlink. Currently, there’s no direct arrangement with Apple and SpaceX over Starlink satellite-based internet connectivity. But this might change. Firstly, SpaceX is reportedly supporting “the same radio spectrum Apple uses for the iPhone’s current satellite features” from Globalstar in new Starlink satellite designs. 

Apple relies on Globalstar satellite for the Emergency SOS via satellite feature on iPhone 14 and newer. This allows you to contact emergency services when you’re outside of the cell coverage.

Apple relies on Globalstar satellite for emergency SOS

Second, The Information reports that Globalstar chair James Monroe has expressed his desire to sell the firm for $10 billion. “Such a deal could signal that Globalstar and Apple are seeking more independence from each other,” the report adds. Reportedly, Apple previously declined to strike a deal with SpaceX for Starlink for an iPhone satellite service provider. 

The report adds that Apple plans to add support for 5G networks that aren’t tethered to Earth’s surface, including satellite in iPhones as early as next year. If this pans out, we might see iPhone 18 Pro models gaining satellite 5G.

Last month, SpaceX struck a deal with EchoStar to acquire $17 billion worth of spectrum for direct-to-cell satellite connectivity. For now, though, SpaceX offers a standalone Starlink service for home and vehicles. It offers limited connectivity through T-Mobile’s T-Satellite service.

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