Apple and SpaceX are competing to enhance modern cellphone capabilities through satellite technology, particularly in regions where traditional cellphone reception is unavailable. As per a claim made by the Wall Street Journal, Apple has invested heavily in satellite communication through Globalstar while SpaceX has deployed hundreds of satellites via its Starlink service. Deploying satellites for Globalstar’s services is something SpaceX does for Apple.

The core lies in competition for control over the ‘spectrum,’ which is the minimal radio frequencies necessary fo these satellite networks to operate. SpaceX has attempted to block Apple’s Globalstar expansion by urging US authorities to stall Globalstar’s ambitions. SpaceX, together with its TMobile partner, sought Apple’s assistance for bringing StarLink to iPhones, but later had to Avast negotiations with Apple, who does not allow other companies full control over how flesh iPhone satellite functionalities.

Despite the ongoing feuds, Apple and SpaceX are intertwined. Apple depends on SpaceXs for launching their Globalstar satellites, and T Mobile and SpaceX require Apple’s aid to ensure seamless StarLink integration with the iPhones.

Apple recently enables a new feature that allows sending SOS messages without cellular connectivity for any iPhone through an investment in Globalstar. Meanwhile, SpaceX has contested Apple’s plans, arguing that the radiofrequency must be practically unused.

Apart from satellites, there has been some rivalry between Musk and Apple, like the competition for self-driving car engineers, and the conflict surrounding X (formerly Twitter). Musk has gone so far as to say he would consider creating a smartphone to compete with Apple and their dominance in application marketing.

Though Apple is actively working to expand its capacity with other satellite companies, SpaceX does have a leg up with more satellites in orbit. Although there continues to be competition between the two, it cannot be ignored that both companies need to cooperate to achieve their objectives in satellite communication.

Read More: Apple and SpaceX Compete Over Satellite-Based Mobile Connectivity