2 days Ago By Namrata Sen
The reported rivalry between Tim Cook ‘s Apple Inc. AAPL and Elon Musk ‘s SpaceX is heating up over satellite technology designed to eliminate cellphone dead zones. What Happened: Apple is pouring significant resources into satellite-based communications, while SpaceX has already launched over 550 satellites for its Starlink service.
According to a report by The Wall Street Journal on Tuesday, both companies are vying for limited spectrum rights to transmit their signals, leading to increased tensions. Apple’s satellite investments have reportedly irked Musk, leading SpaceX to lobby regulators to delay an Apple-backed satellite expansion. Apple, SpaceX did not immediately respond to Benzinga’s request for comment.
The conflict escalated when SpaceX and its partner, T-Mobile (NYSE: TMUS, approached Apple for collaboration to bring Starlink to iPhones . After intense negotiations, an agreement was reached allowing the SpaceX and T-Mobile satellite cellphone service to appear on newer iPhones. Notably, Apple will maintain strict control over the iPhone’s mostly closed software ecosystem.
Last year, the tech giant invested more than $1 billion in satellite operator Globalstar , which powers Apple’s built-in satellite connectivity feature for iPhones. This service allows users to send text messages and call for emergency assistance in areas without traditional cellphone service. See Also: Perplexity CEO Aravind Srinivas Shuts Down Financial Rumors, Says AI Search Startup Has ‘No Plans Of IPOing Before 2028’ – Apple AAPL , Amazon.
com AMZN – Benzinga However, SpaceX recently urged the Federal Communications Commission to reject Globalstar’s application for permission to utilize specific spectrum for Apple’s new satellite network. Why It Matters: The ongoing rivalry between Apple and SpaceX underscores the growing significance of satellite technology in the telecommunications industry. Elon Musk and Apple are in a feud over satellite services, as both companies see potential benefits from greater connectivity in remote areas—boosting iPhone sales for Apple and Starlink adoption for SpaceX.
While they have discussed linking iPhones with SpaceX satellites, no deal has materialized. Their rivalry extends beyond satellites, including past competition for driverless car talent and tensions over Apple's control of app distribution and advertising on X. Musk has even considered creating his own smartphone out of frustration with Apple's control over third-party apps.
Benzinga Edge Stock Rankings highlight strong momentum and growth rankings for Apple in the 81st and 45th percentiles, respectively. Curious how other stocks stack up? Click here to uncover growth and momentum scores for top stocks. Read Next: Mark Cuban Warns Of ‘Red Rural Recession’ As Hundreds Of Small Town MAGA Supporters Reportedly Lose Federal Jobs – Benzinga Image via Shutterstock Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
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