Cupertino tech giant Apple is preparing to take on SpaceX's Starlink satellite internet service globally, according to two fresh job postings from the firm. Apple announced a $1.5 billion stake in American mobile satellite service (MSS) connectivity provider Globalstar late last year as part of its efforts to provide satellite connectivity to iPhone users. This feature enables users in several countries using specific iPhone models to send emergency messages, with the latest job postings suggesting that Apple plans to further build its MSS connectivity features.
Apple Gears Up To Expand MSS Satellite Connectivity Globally Show Job Postings
Apple announced its first foray into satellite connectivity more than two years back in November 2022. The announcements covered $450 million in commitments to support manufacturing in the US which covered Globalstar's satellite production and ground stations to complete the network infrastructure. Ground stations, along with satellites and user terminals, are key links in a satellite network as they complete the link between the user and internet servers.
The firm followed up with a massive $1.5 billion investment in Globalstar in November last year through which Apple acquired a 20% stake in a Globalstar entity that manages the firm's MSS satellite network. Globalsar will use the proceeds to build and launch its MSS satellites through SpaceX which is the market leader for US and global satellite launches.
Building on these developments, Apple now appears to be preparing to expand its presence in the global MSS market and beyond its Globalstar. The firm has posted two job openings on its site. One of these is for 'Senior Regulatory Engineering Program Manager- Satellite/Product Integrity' and the other is for 'Strategic Deals & Partnerships Manager.'
The first listing is for designing and developing Apple's 'Satellite Strategy' and play a "critical role in orchestrating long-term changes in the satellite space, including wireless regulations and spectrum policy." The role will be primarily focused on regulatory proceedings occurring with "international and national regulatory bodies" according to Apple.
The second Apple job listing requires the applicant to leverage "leverage and develop a keen understanding of worldwide Mobile Satellite (MSS) Spectrum interests and issues, related competitive dynamics, complex commercial agreements, intellectual property, and operations." The role covers Apple's efforts to "develop and manage worldwide satellite spectrum rights."
Apple's satellite service is limited to allowing users to communicate with others in an emergency scenario where they do not have cellular or WiFi internet capability. SpaceX also operates in the MSS sector of satellite connectivity through its partnership with T-Mobile.
The firm secured the FCC's approval to continue connecting T-Mobile users with Starlink satellites in November, with the Commission deferring SpaceX's request to increase its satellite signal power. As part of its mobile efforts, SpaceX launched direct-to-cell satellites regularly last year. Regulatory filings show Globalstar plans to build a constellation with 3,080 satellites out of which 10% must be launched by 2029.
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