Apple’s latest schtick to get everyone to buy new iPhones? Satellites. 🛰️ 🚀
The company is reportedly integrating two new iPhone features which utilize satellite service. iPhone users could be able to call or text even without network service… remember satellite phones? iPhones might be bringing their best features back.
Why is this useful? Well, if you hypothetically got stuck on a deserted island, you would be able to call and/or text for help. The technology is intended for emergency circumstances, but it probably won’t be ready until at least next year.
Apple is developing an Emergency Message via Satellite service integrated into the Messages app and a tool to report emergencies, like plane crashes or sunken ships. The texting-via-satellite technology will be called Stewie (kind of like Siri?).
Apple is still debating whether or not the company should launch its own satellites. In the meantime, it is rumored that Apple will use satellite technology owned by Globalstar Inc.
$GSAT gained 64% yesterday, but closed down 15% today after analysts took a closer look Apple’s plans. Some claim that the satellite functionality might not make this generation of phones, but we’ll have to see. $AAPL is up 0.02% after hours.