A recent leak from a Chinese source suggests that Apple's upcoming C2 modem, set to debut in the iPhone 18 Pro series, will support 5G satellite connectivity. According to the rumor, this modem will enable devices to connect to New Radio Non-Terrestrial Networks (NR-NTN), allowing direct internet access via low-Earth orbit satellites in areas lacking traditional cellular service.
This is not the first indication of Apple's intention to integrate NR-NTN technology, as the company has been speculated to pursue this feature for some time. The C2 modem is expected to be embedded in the main chipset, a departure from the existing C1 and C1X models.
Additionally, the leak mentions that Huawei conducted public testing for its own NR-NTN solution last year, with 2026 anticipated to mark the beginning of satellite internet connectivity for various smartphone manufacturers.
Source (in Chinese)
