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Musk versus Apple: clash over satellite telephony, between investment and limited frequencies

Elon Musk and Apple are at loggerheads over satellite frequency rights. SpaceX bets on Starlink, while Apple accelerates with Globalstar to boost mobile connectivity

An underground clash over satellite telephony is reportedly taking place between Elon Musk and Apple, according to the Wall Street Journal. On the one hand, Musk is pushing the cellular connectivity offered by SpaceX’s satellites through its Starlink service, which has already launched over 550 satellites. On the other, Apple is investing heavily in satellite-based communications, relying on its partner Globalstar, with an investment exceeding $1 billion.

Tensions escalated when SpaceX, together with T-Mobile, sought Apple’s cooperation in integrating Starlink on the new iPhones, but without obtaining the enthusiasm hoped for by Cupertino, which remains focused on its own satellite ecosystem. Musk even reportedly asked the Federal Communications Commission to reject a request by Globalstar for the use of a limited frequency spectrum.

In the past, Musk had considered the idea of developing his own smartphone, angered by Apple’s control over his apps. Although the project never saw the light of day, the current context could reopen that chapter, leaving room for potential new moves by the SpaceX founder.

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