On September 10, 2026, Beijing Time, Apple unveiled the iPhone 18 Pro series and its first foldable iPhone, the iPhone Duo. Simultaneously, through a footnote in its press release, Apple announced that existing users of the iPhone 14, iPhone 15, and iPhone 16 series will receive an additional year of free access to satellite communication capabilities. Since its initial launch in September 2023, the free access period for this feature has been extended for three consecutive years. This extension was not publicly announced during the event but was only noted in the form of a footnote in the press release. Satellite communication enables users to stay connected and receive emergency assistance in areas without cellular network or Wi-Fi coverage. Currently, Apple has not disclosed the official timing or specific pricing model for charging for this feature.
