Apple first introduced satellite connectivity with the iPhone 14 in 2022, allowing users to contact emergency services in remote areas.
Now, with the release of iOS 18.3, Apple has expanded the feature to let users message friends and family via satellite.
A new report reveals that Apple has been secretly working with T-Mobile and SpaceX to integrate Starlink support for iPhones, and the switch is now live with iOS 18.3.
T-Mobile and SpaceX Partner with Apple for Starlink on iPhone
According to Bloomberg, Apple has quietly collaborated with SpaceX and T-Mobile to bring Starlink satellite connectivity to iPhones. T-Mobile and SpaceX first announced their partnership in 2022, initially promising Starlink support for Samsung’s Galaxy smartphones. Now, it appears that iPhone users are also being added to the mix.
For now, only a select group of iPhone users have access to the T-Mobile Starlink beta, which is still in its early testing phase. That means potential bugs and performance issues, which will likely be refined in future updates. While Apple has not officially mentioned the feature in iOS 18.3’s changelog, the beta program is confirmed in a T-Mobile support document.
How Starlink Messaging Works on iPhone
Users who receive the update will see a message from T-Mobile stating:
“You’re in the T-Mobile Starlink beta. You can now stay connected by texting via satellite from virtually anywhere. To start experiencing coverage beyond, please update to iOS 18.3.”
Right now, Starlink satellite connectivity on iPhones only supports messaging. However, SpaceX and T-Mobile plan to expand the service to include voice calls and data in the future. The feature is currently limited to the U.S., whereas Apple’s Globalstar service works in multiple countries.
What Sets Starlink Apart from Globalstar?
Apple has been working with Globalstar for its emergency SOS via satellite, but Starlink offers a key advantage. With Globalstar, users need to manually point their iPhone at the sky to establish a connection. In contrast, Starlink’s system is fully automatic, meaning iPhones can connect to satellites even while in a user’s pocket.
T-Mobile has confirmed that full Starlink satellite connectivity for all iPhone users is expected to roll out sometime in 2025. More details will follow as Apple, SpaceX, and T-Mobile refine the technology.
