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Eutelsat Competes for Secure Satellite Telecoms Contract in Italy

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Eutelsat, a Franco-British satellite operator, is reportedly in discussions with the Italian government to provide secure satellite communication systems, a move that places it in direct competition with Elon Musk’s Starlink. The Italian government is seeking to ensure encrypted communications between officials, diplomats, and defense personnel working in high-risk areas. Sources close to the matter confirmed that Eutelsat, alongside Starlink, is being considered for the contract, which is critical to Italy’s national security.

The involvement of Eutelsat has not been previously disclosed, highlighting Europe’s desire to establish alternatives to Starlink, which currently dominates the satellite communication sector. This interest in European alternatives comes amid rising geopolitical tensions, particularly regarding the war in Ukraine, where Starlink’s role has become more contentious.

Eutelsat, which merged with OneWeb in 2023, operates a constellation of around 650 low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites. While its satellite network is smaller than Starlink’s 6,700 active satellites, Eutelsat’s shares have surged recently due to ongoing discussions with the European Union regarding internet access for Ukraine.

The company has confirmed its regular engagement with European governments to provide secure satellite communication services. However, Eutelsat declined to comment specifically on its talks with Italy, citing confidentiality.

The Italian government has expressed concerns about relying on foreign companies for sensitive national security contracts. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s right-wing government has faced criticism for considering Starlink, especially given its ties to Elon Musk, who is also a close ally of U.S. President Donald Trump. While no contract has been signed with Starlink, Italy is considering alternatives, including developing its own low-orbit satellites. However, progress on this front has been slow, with delays in the EU’s IRIS² satellite project.

Reports suggest that Italy may consider a deal with Starlink worth 1.5 billion euros ($1.61 billion) over five years, although no agreement has been finalized.

Italy Seeks Full Data Control in Potential Starlink Deal, Musk Adviser States

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Italy is considering a deal with Elon Musk’s Starlink for secure satellite communications, with a strong emphasis on maintaining full control over its data. The potential five-year agreement, valued at 1.5 billion euros ($1.6 billion), would provide encrypted communications for Italy’s government, diplomats, and defense personnel in sensitive and high-risk areas.

The move has sparked criticism from opposition parties, who question whether Italy should rely on a company owned by U.S. billionaire Elon Musk for handling such critical communications. Starlink, a subsidiary of Musk’s SpaceX aerospace business, operates 6,700 active satellites in low-Earth orbit, positioning it as a leading player in satellite telecommunications.

Andrea Stroppa, an adviser for Musk’s aerospace ventures, reassured the public during an interview with Italian state broadcaster RAI, stating that Italian institutions would retain full control over their data. He emphasized that while the technology would be provided by a U.S.-owned company, Italy’s national interests would be safeguarded. The discussions began before Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni assumed office in October 2022.

Meloni, who has a well-documented positive relationship with Musk, dismissed concerns raised by opposition leaders, assuring that the government’s evaluation of the project would remain impartial.

 

Apple to Introduce Satellite Communications and Blood Pressure Monitoring to Apple Watch

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Apple is reportedly planning to integrate satellite communication capabilities into its Apple Watch by 2025, as well as introducing a blood-pressure monitoring feature, according to a Bloomberg News report on Tuesday.

The satellite communication feature is expected to debut in the 2025 iteration of the Apple Watch Ultra. This capability will allow users to send messages without relying on cellular or internet connections, leveraging Apple’s ongoing advancements in satellite technology. Apple initially brought satellite connectivity to its iPhones in 2022 and recently invested $1.5 billion into satellite provider Globalstar to enhance these services further.

HEALTH-FOCUSED INNOVATIONS

In addition to satellite communication, Apple is reportedly ramping up development on a blood-pressure monitoring feature for its smartwatch. This medical functionality is also anticipated to launch in 2025. Apple has been steadily expanding the health-related capabilities of its devices, aiming to provide users with tools for long-term health tracking and emergency response.

In September, Apple introduced a new smartwatch model that can detect conditions such as sleep apnea and alert users to emergencies. These developments align with the company’s broader push to make its devices integral to users’ health and wellness routines.

MARKET IMPACT AND OUTLOOK

Apple’s latest innovations underscore its strategy to blend advanced technology with health-focused features, aiming to further entrench its ecosystem in consumers’ daily lives. Satellite connectivity on the Apple Watch would enhance its utility in areas with limited cellular coverage, appealing to outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers.

While the company did not immediately respond to requests for comment, these anticipated features are expected to position Apple strongly in the wearable tech and health device markets, reinforcing its leadership in both sectors.