Katarzyna Petru
In the world of technology, there is no shortage of rivalry, but few have the tension, ego, and future implications of this one: Elon Musk versus Tim Cook. The backdrop? An attempt to take over the future of satellite connectivity in smartphones. Musk made Apple an offer that was meant to change everything. Cook said "no". And then the war began.
5 billion dollars, 72 hours and the vision of an iPhone powered by Starlink
Even before the world saw the iPhone 14 in 2022, Elon Musk knocked on Apple's door with a very specific proposal: his company SpaceX would provide Apple with Starlink satellite connectivity that would work in iPhones – globally.
The offer was quite substantial: 5 billion dollars upfront, and after 18 months of exclusivity – one billion dollars a year. Musk believed that Apple simply had to accept such a deal. And he set the clock: 72 hours to decide.
Apple – represented by Tim Cook – refused. Instead, the giant from Cupertino opted for a smaller partner: the company Globalstar. No risk, no Elon, no drama. But this decision triggered a chain of events that continues to this day.
Starlink Direct to Cell: Musk is doing his thing, iPhone works without Apple
Instead of taking offense, Musk got to work. Together with T-Mobile, he created the service "Starlink Direct to Cell," which allows for direct satellite communication on smartphones – including iPhones – without the need to change hardware or use external antennas.
Irony? The iPhone, although it did not accept Musk's offer, can still operate on Starlink – provided the user is on the T-Mobile network. Meanwhile, Apple is sticking to its agreement with Globalstar, offering emergency SOS via satellite – but only under limited conditions and in specific regions.
Musk not only did it his way. He did it faster, broader and... more effectively.
War for the Band: SpaceX vs Globalstar, Apple in the Middle
In 2022, SpaceX challenged Globalstar's right to use a specific radio band – precisely the one that Apple uses in iPhones for emergency communication. According to SpaceX, Globalstar is not fully utilising this band, hindering the development of competing technologies – including Starlink.
If SpaceX wins, Apple could be left without a key resource for its satellite service. And that means one thing: Apple might have to return to negotiations with Musk.
Problems Inside Apple. Is Globalstar a Dead End?
Not only external competition poses a problem. According to unofficial reports, frustration regarding the partnership with Globalstar is growing within Apple itself. Craig Federighi, head of the software department, and other top executives have reportedly expressed concerns about Globalstar's aging infrastructure and the lack of serious investment in development.
This means one thing: Cook's decision to stay away from Musk may already be costing Apple more internally than anyone expected.
It’s not just a fight for coverage. It’s a fight for the future
Today, it’s no longer just about who can deliver more megabits from orbit. It’s about who will take control of connectivity in crisis situations, in remote locations, in the future of smartphones that knows no borders of cellular networks.
Musk plays aggressively – with offers, satellites, and legal actions. Apple, as always, plays the long game – with security, control, and cautious partnerships.
But one thing is certain: in this battle, it’s no longer just about technology. It’s about who will define what the smartphone will be in 2030.
