The Voice News: Apple has offered satellite-based emergency messaging on the iPhone since 2022, gradually expanding the service. However, according to a new exposé by The Information, the company once had far more expansive satellite ambitions—efforts that have been scaled back due to concerns over telecom industry partnerships, government scrutiny, and a high-stakes proposal from none other than Elon Musk.
The Birth and Death of “Project Eagle”
Apple’s satellite dream took flight as early as 2015, when it began exploratory talks with Boeing on an ambitious initiative to beam wireless internet directly to iPhones and homes via a constellation of satellites. Internally dubbed Project Eagle, this effort envisioned launching thousands of Boeing satellites to provide always-on internet service far beyond emergency functionality.
For residential users, Apple imagined distributing antenna units that could be affixed to windows, dispersing connectivity throughout homes and offices—ushering in a truly independent Apple internet ecosystem.
Yet, despite the grand vision, the project faltered. Sources familiar with the matter reveal that CEO Tim Cook ultimately grew cautious. There were mounting fears that bypassing telecom carriers—many of which are strategic Apple partners—could jeopardize those critical relationships.
Elon Musk’s $5 Billion Satellite Proposal—and the Fallout
In 2022, upon learning that Apple was preparing to unveil satellite features with the iPhone 14, Elon Musk made a bold move. Through SpaceX, he pitched Apple an exclusive satellite connectivity deal, proposing an 18-month exclusivity agreement in exchange for a $5 billion upfront payment. After that window, Apple would be required to pay $1 billion annually for continued access to Starlink.
Musk issued an ultimatum: accept the deal within 72 hours, or SpaceX would launch a competing feature—one compatible with iPhones.
Apple declined.
Just weeks before the iPhone 14 debut, SpaceX announced a partnership with T-Mobile, allowing users to send and receive text messages via Starlink in areas without cellular coverage—effectively delivering on Musk’s threat.
Internal Tensions and Regulatory Fears
Apple’s decision to steer away from deeper satellite integration is reportedly influenced by more than just business partnerships. According to The Information, executives feared that expanding the service could provoke federal intervention. Offering full satellite connectivity might cause the U.S. government to classify Apple as a telecommunications carrier—bringing heavy regulatory oversight and potentially undermining Apple’s hard-fought privacy policies.
One significant concern: compliance with surveillance laws. Telecommunication carriers are legally required to allow government agencies access to user data. Expanding satellite services might necessitate Apple to build a backdoor into iMessage, something the company has fiercely resisted.
The Road Ahead: Dimming Prospects or Strategic Restraint?
Internally, debate rages on. Some executives, including Senior VP Craig Federighi, reportedly believe Apple should abandon satellite ventures altogether and leave the space to traditional carriers. Still, upcoming product rumors suggest the company isn’t quite ready to retreat. The Apple Watch Ultra 3, expected later this year, is rumored to include satellite functionality—indicating that some at Apple continue to push for innovation in this domain.
Final Thoughts
Apple’s cautious approach to satellite technology is emblematic of its larger corporate philosophy—prioritizing control, privacy, and long-term strategy over quick expansion. Elon Musk’s high-stakes offer may have been too aggressive, positioning SpaceX in a dominant role Apple simply could not accept. Instead, the company has partnered with Globalstar, a much smaller satellite provider that remains dependent on Apple’s support.
Whether Apple’s conservative stance will protect its ecosystem or leave it lagging behind in next-generation connectivity remains to be seen.
Top Comment by Inkling
“Apple likes to be the one calling the shots in all its partnerships. That’s why they build their own chips and outsource production—it gives them flexibility. With Musk’s deal, SpaceX would have held the upper hand, and Apple doesn’t do subordinate. Choosing Globalstar makes sense—it’s a weaker player that Apple can essentially control.”