Satellite internet has grown exponentially over the years, and one Big Tech company once planned to launch its own service.
It was revealed in a new report that Apple previously wanted to establish a Starlink-like home satellite internet service under the codename, "Project Eagle," and even looked at tapping Boeing for its launch.
Offering a satellite service has always been part of Apple's plans, and while the company did not push through with beaming internet from orbit, the company delivered the satellite Emergency SOS starting in 2022.
Apple Wanted a Starlink-like Satellite Internet Service
A new report by The Information revealed an almost-decade-long plan of Apple to launch its very own satellite internet service that is similar to what Elon Musk's Starlink currently offers. This centers on a home-based satellite internet technology that would allow users to connect to satellites wirelessly and take advantage of the connectivity beamed from the orbit.
It was initially planned by the company to sell antennas that would receive the connection, and this could be attached to windows and ensure connectivity throughout one's home.
It was revealed that this was part of Apple's campaign to be self-reliant, similar to how it developed the silicon chips for the Mac that allowed it to leave behind Intel.
Apple's Project Eagle With Boeing
The report revealed that the project started in 2015, and the company had already discussed its plans with its potential partner, Boeing, to launch a satellite internet service for iPhones and homes. This was called "Project Eagle," and their plans initially focused on launching thousands of satellites into orbit to provide network connectivity.
Apple previously planned to launch it for public use in 2019, but it did not push through because of CEO Tim Cook. It was revealed that Cook was concerned about its impact on telco partners of the company, endangering their relationships.
Apple and Satellite Connectivity
Back in 2022, Apple released the iPhone 14 series with a special feature for the iPhone 14 Pro, the capability to tap into satellites to send emergency text messages to first responders and chosen contacts.
The company touted that the satellite connectivity feature would help users in dangerous situations, particularly when a terrestrial cellular network is unavailable.
Later on, Apple improved this on a more software-level approach, particularly as it upgraded the experience by allowing compatible devices on iOS 18 to send iMessages using satellite connectivity. This further expanded the capabilities of its satellite Emergency SOS feature that no longer requires having a disaster or risk in order to use the feature, making it helpful for areas that suffer from a poor connection.
The adoption of satellite for wireless networks has since evolved, particularly as Starlink grew its services and partnered with telecommunications companies to allow people to use the satellite network without hardware requirements.
That being said, Apple could have been among the pioneers of satellite internet alongside Starlink and other companies, but the company decided to push back on its idea.
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