Helene’s teaching: you and your company must have satellite communications

When will the service go global?

Globalstar, Apple’s satellite connectivity partner, is consistently launching new satellites to bolster the expanding service. Regulatory documents from the firm indicate their intention to deploy an extra 26 satellites within the next year, with at least one source suggesting they aim to have 3,000 in orbit eventually. An expert in space matters believes Apple will eventually opt to broaden the network to evolve into a fully satellite-dependent communication service.

It is probable that Apple will adhere to a schedule similar to how it introduced Emergency SOS through satellite after its initial launch in the US and Canada. Following this precedent, the service was later extended to France, Germany, Ireland, the UK, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Italy, Luxembourg, New Zealand, Portugal, Switzerland, Spain, and the Netherlands over the subsequent year, and another year later in Japan.

A valuable insight for all

While the primary focus remains on the life-saving and reassuring aspects for the families and friends of those affected by catastrophes, the ability of these devices to uphold community strength during crises could serve as a meaningful lesson in bolstering business resilience. Besides steering clear of platforms prone to frequent ransomware attacks and escalating security expenses, it is possible that smartphones with satellite connectivity could emerge as a crucial business tool as we navigate an increasingly volatile world.

About Author

AndyC

Andy Curtis is an award-winning security consultant, researcher and public speaker. He has been working in the computer security industry since the early 1990s, having been employed by state and federal government, leading healthcare and banking providers across three continents. He has given talks about computer security for some of the world’s largest companies, worked with law enforcement agencies on investigations into hacking groups, and is a regular voice on TV and radio explaining IT security threats.

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