Satellite communications were part of the specific features of the iPhone 14, a series marketed since fall 2022. Apple has in fact included a function in its smartphones allowing its customers to send messages by satellite in the event of an emergency, when they are not within range of traditional mobile networks. An option whose cost was not a subject at the launch of the devices, since Apple chose to offer the appropriate subscription to iPhone 14 users for a period of one year – from mid-November 2022 , date the option was activated.
Apple now communicates less frequently about said communications, contenting itself with echoing, during its events, lives saved thanks to SOS messages sent via its mobiles; we should also point out that the iPhone 15, available internationally for a few weeks, benefits from the same free offer for a year. If Cupertino returns to the subject today, it is to announce the extension of its operation: iPhone 14 owners having activated the function before November 15, 2022, that is to say early buyers , will benefit from an additional year free to use, if necessary, SOS satellite communications. No action on their part will be necessary. iPhone 14 owners in France are concerned, since France is one of the 16 eligible countries.
A price scale to be defined
Apple does not provide the slightest explanation for this turnaround, even though satellite communications are the result of investments estimated at 450 million dollars – at the launch of the service alone -, via its collaboration with the company Globalstar. However, it is clear that both during the presentation of the iPhone 14 and during that of the iPhone 15, Apple did not see fit to specify the price of the subscriptions which will be billed to its customers wishing to maintain access to satellite communications for a longer period of time. once the free period has expired. This suggests that the firm needs more time to define its offers and determine prices that allow it to cover its costs – new investments have been made to set up the Roadside roadside assistance function Support in the United States, with AAA Satellites — and to retain its customers. Prices which could also vary depending on the country, since certain functions are not available outside the USA.