Starlink Wars: Elon Musk vs Apple in the Battle for Satellite Supremacy
The rivalry between Elon Musk and Apple has taken to the skies—literally. Years after an aggressive proposal from Musk to provide satellite connectivity for the iPhone, tensions continue to rise between SpaceX and Apple, according to The Information.
The 2022 Offer: A Deal Apple Could Refuse
In 2022, Musk offered Apple Starlink connectivity for the iPhone 14: $5 billion upfront and $1 billion yearly after 18 months of exclusivity. He gave Tim Cook 72 hours to accept—or face a rival service. Apple declined and chose Globalstar for Emergency SOS via satellite.
Retaliation: From Rival Services to Regulatory Challenges
Musk delivered on his threat, teaming with T-Mobile to let phones—including iPhones—default to Starlink when out of range. At the same time, SpaceX is challenging Globalstar’s spectrum use; if it wins, Apple’s satellite feature could be disabled, pushing them back to Musk.
Ongoing Friction: Musk’s Public Criticisms of Apple
Musk’s tensions with Apple aren’t limited to satellites. He’s repeatedly criticized the App Store’s fees, siding with Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney. At the same time, Musk hasn’t complained about how the Tesla app, which also uses Apple’s App Store infrastructure, is billed.
There’s even speculation that Musk might develop his own smartphone, further escalating his rivalry with Apple.
Internal Apple Resistance: Doubts from Within
Not everyone at Apple supports the Globalstar deal. Former employees say execs like Craig Federighi and Adrian Perica have doubts about the network's performance and future. Critics call it outdated, with planned satellites unlikely to help soon. Some also fear Apple could face telecom-level regulation.
Strategic Commitment: Apple Bets on Globalstar
Despite pushback, Apple has committed $1.7 billion to Globalstar, including $1.1 billion for new satellites. It’s playing the long game, but with SpaceX moving fast and challenging regulations, the satellite battle remains wide open.
The Battle Continues
As SpaceX challenges Globalstar and Apple expands its satellite plans, the battle is far from over. With billions at stake and the future of smartphone connectivity on the line, the "Starlink Wars" are just getting started.