Apple's iPhone 18 Pro will reportedly support direct 5G satellite internet connectivity through the company's next-generation C2 modem. Chinese leaker Fixed Focus Digital claims the C2 baseband chip will include NR-NTN (New Radio Non-Terrestrial Networks) support, enabling phones to connect directly to low-Earth-orbit satellites for internet access.
The feature would mark a significant upgrade from Apple's current satellite capabilities. Since 2022, iPhones have offered Emergency SOS via Satellite for limited text messaging in remote areas.
The iPhone 18 Pro's C2 modem could transform satellite connectivity from emergency-only functionality to full internet access.
According to the Weibo leak, 2026 represents a turning point for smartphone satellite connectivity.
"This year, direct internet access via low-Earth-orbit satellites on smartphones is a major highlight," the leaker wrote.
Apple's implementation would allow iPhones to treat satellites as additional cell towers, providing coverage in areas without traditional network infrastructure.
Previous reports from The Information and Bloomberg align with this direction. Wayne Ma reported last October that Apple plans to support 5G networks "not tethered to Earth's surface," while Mark Gurman described "satellite over 5G" features for upcoming iPhones. The distinction between carrier backhaul systems and direct satellite connections remains unclear, but the latest leak suggests Apple aims for direct device-to-satellite communication.
The C2 modem represents Apple's continued push toward in-house cellular technology. As a successor to the C1 modem introduced with iPhone 16e, the C2 chip reportedly includes mmWave 5G support and improved performance compared to Qualcomm alternatives. Satellite connectivity would be its most ambitious feature yet.
Current satellite features require clear sky visibility and offer limited bandwidth. The iPhone 18 Pro's implementation could eliminate these restrictions, allowing connections from pockets, vehicles, or indoor locations.
This would enable broader data use, including photo sharing via satellite and potentially satellite-powered Apple Maps navigation.
Infrastructure upgrades remain necessary for full implementation. Apple currently partners with Globalstar for satellite services, and their aging network would require significant improvements to handle 5G satellite data traffic. Reports suggest Apple may explore partnerships with SpaceX's Starlink constellation as an alternative or complementary solution.
The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max are expected to launch in fall 2026. If the rumors prove accurate, these models would become the first mainstream smartphones with true 5G satellite internet capabilities, moving beyond emergency messaging to comprehensive remote connectivity.
