iPhone 18 Pro can connect to the Internet from space

According to an exclusive report from The Information, Apple is working to integrate 5G connectivity via satellite into upcoming iPhone models, starting with the iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max, and possibly the foldable iPhone.

If it goes according to plan, it would be one of Apple's most significant technological advances in a decade, freeing users from their dependence on land-based cellular networks.

Not only can users send emergency messages or locate their location when they lose signal like today, they will be able to surf the web, watch videos and download high-speed data anywhere, even in the middle of the ocean, on high mountains or in the desert.

In other words, Apple is preparing to turn the iPhone into a truly globally connected device, rather than just a “premium smartphone.”

From Globalstar to SpaceX: A Game-Changing Partnership

Apple is currently partnering with Globalstar, a US-based satellite company, to provide satellite features like Emergency SOS and Find My for iPhone 14 and later models. However, Globalstar is facing financial difficulties, and there are even rumors that they are considering selling the company for more than $10 billion.

Meanwhile, SpaceX - the company founded by billionaire Elon Musk has just announced a radio signal system compatible with the type of waves that Apple is using. This has sparked rumors about the possibility of cooperation between Apple and SpaceX, despite the "not very friendly" relationship between Elon Musk and Apple in the past.

If this partnership becomes a reality, iPhones could connect directly to the Starlink satellite network, which already covers more than 70 countries, without the need for satellite dishes or additional equipment.

Why is this a “historic turning point”?

Until now, satellite connectivity on iPhones has been limited to emergency situations or finding devices, while T-Mobile's Starlink system only supports a few basic applications and requires users to be in a place with a clear view of the sky.

If Apple's new technology is successfully deployed, users will be able to access comprehensive 5G satellite internet, with data transmission speeds comparable to current mobile networks without the need for Starlink hardware such as a separate dish or Wi-Fi transmitter.

This opens up the possibility of seamless connectivity across the globe, which is especially useful for:

- People living in remote areas or frequently traveling;

- Tourists, reporters, rescue workers;

- Those who need stable connection in emergency or disaster situations.

Challenges ahead

However, this technology still faces many technical and policy challenges.

Data costs are a top concern: Starlink currently charges $50 a month for 50GB and $165 a month for unlimited data, not to mention the separate $299 device.

Meanwhile, information security is also a big issue when data is transmitted over space.

In addition, the increase in the number of satellites in low orbit raises questions about the risk of “space pollution” and satellite collisions.

And while SpaceX may be able to provide the infrastructure, Apple still needs to prove it can deliver an experience that's seamless, reliable, and fast enough to replace traditional cellular networks.

Will Apple “change the world” again?

Apple did the same thing when it created the modern smartphone with the first iPhone in 2007. Now, if it succeeds with 5G satellite internet, it could be a second revolution that takes the iPhone beyond the limits of terrestrial networks and into space.

But is this a real breakthrough, or just a new marketing strategy to push users to upgrade to “Pro” and “premium” versions?

The answer will probably be clear in 2026, when Apple officially announces the iPhone 18 series and the world will know whether we are about to enter the era of borderless Internet, or just another marketing race in the technology world./.