Next gen Apple Watch Ultra will be able to send texts via satellite

Apple plans to bring satellite connections to its smartwatch in 2025 and is ramping up work on a blood-pressure feature, seeking to entice hikers and health-conscious consumers into upgrading their devices.

The satellite capability is slated to come to next year's Apple Watch Ultra, the company's top-of-the-line model, according to people familiar with the matter. The technology will let smartwatch users send off-the-grid text messages via Globalstar Inc.'s fleet of satellites when they don't have a cellular or Wi-Fi connection. 

The other feature, which would monitor whether Apple Watch users have high blood pressure, may arrive as soon as 2025, said the people, who asked not to be identified because the work is confidential. However, it's been delayed before, with Apple previously aiming to release the tool last year. 

The company first launched a satellite communication feature with the iPhone 14 in 2022. It lets users stay in contact with emergency services while off the grid. The capability was expanded last year to allow for contact with roadside assistance providers. Apple upgraded the feature again this year to let people use it to text anyone via iMessage.

But that meant hikers and other outdoor enthusiasts still had to carry their iPhone to use the technology. Now they'll only need their watch.

The Apple Watch Ultra would be the first mainstream smartwatch with satellite abilities. The move also could give consumers less reason to use a standalone satellite communication device, such as Garmin Ltd.'s inReach.