Apple introduced a very interesting function together with the iPhone 14 and 14 Pro in autumn 2022: If you are traveling in an area where cell phone reception is not guaranteed, you can use the iPhone 14 or newer to alert rescue workers via Globalstar’s satellite network. The feature launched in the US and Canada on November 15, 2022 – and, quite surprisingly, in the UK, Germany, Ireland and France just a month later. Actually, the SOS emergency call function via satellite should only be available free of charge for two years – but Apple has not yet announced a subscription, even though the iPhone 14 was presented almost four years ago. Users can continue to use the feature at no additional cost.
Amazon interested in Globalstar
Amazon is in the process of building its own satellite network for Internet access under the name Amazon Leo (formerly Project Kuiper). In order to accelerate the project, according to the Financial Times, Amazon is currently interested in buying Globalstar. Apple invested around $1.1 billion in Globalstar at the end of 2024 and acquired 20 percent of the company’s shares. According to the Financial Times, this makes negotiations between Globalstar and Amazon much more difficult, as Apple now has a say – and is probably not particularly interested in the company falling into Amazon’s hands. Globalstar is currently valued at around $8 billion.
Is Apple buying Globalstar?
Apple is interested in continuing to operate the SOS emergency call function – and there are very few providers that would be considered as a replacement. However, it is uncertain whether Apple will buy Globalstar for this reason, as the company is certainly not particularly interested in operating a satellite network on its own.
What could happen after purchase?
It is uncertain what would happen to the SOS emergency call function after a possible purchase by Amazon. It is highly likely that Apple has entered into very long-term contracts with Globalstar, which would then have to be continued by Amazon as the buyer. It is conceivable that this will result in a partnership between Amazon and Apple, which will enable current and future satellite connectivity functions. However, it is also conceivable that Amazon will show more interest in expanding its own Internet satellite service – and Apple will have to look for a new partner in the medium to long term.
