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Globalstar Seeks FCC Approval for High-Altitude iPhone Connectivity

9/13/2025

Summary

Story summary

Globalstar seeks FCC approval to test a high-altitude vehicle for improved cellular connectivity for iPhones, utilizing its licensed spectrum.
The vehicle will operate at altitudes of 3,000 to 60,000 feet during a six-month test starting October 2025.
Apple extends free satellite connectivity for iPhone users until late 2026, responding to competition in satellite-to-phone services.
SpaceX's Starlink offers satellite data transmission, differing from Apple's manual alignment requirement.
While Google's Project Loon has been discontinued, Airbus's Zephyr drone showcases long-duration flight capabilities.

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Story summary

Globalstar seeks FCC approval to test a high-altitude vehicle for improved cellular connectivity for iPhones, utilizing its licensed spectrum.
The vehicle will operate at altitudes of 3,000 to 60,000 feet during a six-month test starting October 2025.
Apple extends free satellite connectivity for iPhone users until late 2026, responding to competition in satellite-to-phone services.
SpaceX's Starlink offers satellite data transmission, differing from Apple's manual alignment requirement.
While Google's Project Loon has been discontinued, Airbus's Zephyr drone showcases long-duration flight capabilities.