US EditionElon Musk reportedly approached Apple years ago about an iPhone / SpaceX satellite deal.
- Apple rejected Elon Musk's 2022 offer for an $5 billion 18-month Starlink satellite exclusivity deal just before launching its satellite feature.
- The rejection followed Apple's concern that expanding satellite services could trigger telecom regulation and harm carrier relationships.
- Musk pressured Apple to make a decision within three days and, after they declined, partnered with T-Mobile to provide satellite messaging services in regions without reliable LTE or 5G coverage.
- Musk warned he would launch a similar feature compatible with all phones, while Apple continues offering limited emergency satellite texting since 2022.
- Apple's full satellite ambitions, initiated with Boeing in 2015 under 'Project Eagle', have been curtailed by regulatory fears and carrier concerns.
13 Articles
13 Articles
Apple’s Satellite Ambitions Threatened by Elon Musk, Internal Resistance
Three years ago, Elon Musk approached Apple with an eleventh-hour offer. Musk had heard that Apple was about to announce a feature for the upcoming iPhone 14 in partnership with satellite firm Globalstar that would allow iPhones to send text messages to emergency services in areas without ...
Elon Musk reportedly approached Apple years ago about an iPhone / SpaceX satellite deal.
The Information reports that three years ago, Musk offered Apple an 18-month exclusive connection via SpaceX in return for $5 billion up front, and $1 billion per year after that to support satellite-connected iPhone features. If Apple didn’t take it within 72 hours, he threatened to announce a competing feature. Apple went forward with Globalstar (the report also mentions a canceled “Project Eagle” effort with Boeing that would’ve delivered ful…
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 80% of the sources are Center
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
Ownership
To view ownership data please Upgrade to Vantage
