A new rumor from a Chinese leaker suggests that Apple’s C2 modem which is expected to be featured inside the iPhone 18 Pro series will support 5G satellite connectivity. The rumor claims the C2 modem will offer support for New Radio Non-Terrestrial Networks (NR-NTN) connectivity. This means devices with the new modem will be able to connect to low-Earth orbit satellites for direct internet access in areas without traditional cellular coverage.
This is not the first time we’re hearing about Apple’s push into NR-NTN, as Cupertino has been rumored to bring the feature for some time now. The C2 modem is also expected to be integrated inside the main chipset unlike the current C1 and C1X modems.
In addition, the leak suggests that Huawei was conducting public testing for its own NR-NTN solution last year and 2026 is shaping up to be the starting point for satellite internet connectivity for several smartphone OEMs.
Source (in Chinese)
