Globalstar announces C-3 constellation: 48 new LEO satellites built by MDA and Rocket Lab, 85% capacity for Apple

Globalstar/C-3 Constellation

Globalstar unveiled its third-generation satellite constellation, C-3, with 48 new satellites at 1,414 km altitude featuring higher-power downlinks and 90 new ground antennas. Apple holds a 20% stake in Globalstar and committed up to $1.5 billion for the constellation, which reserves 85% of capacity for Apple's iPhone satellite messaging services, including emergency SOS and regular text/iMessage relay when cellular is unavailable.

• C-3 operates at ~1,414 km altitude with 52° inclination; higher transmit power than current constellation enables messaging indoors and in vehicles.
• Apple funds $1.5B of development and reserves 85% capacity for iPhone satellite features (free to users, subsidized by Apple).
• MDA and Rocket Lab build satellites; SpaceX provides launch services; ground stations expand to ~35 worldwide.
• First antenna installed June 2025 in Clifton, Texas; satellite launches expected 2026.