Apple secretly partners with SpaceX and T-Mobile to integrate Starlink satellite support into iPhones with iOS 18.3.
Apple Inc. has been secretly working with SpaceX and T-Mobile US Inc. to add support for the Starlink network in its latest iPhone software, providing an alternative to the company’s in-house satellite-communication service.
Starlink plans to start beta testing its Direct-to-Cell service. The beta test will include its global cellular partners, including T-Mobile.
Starlink support appears to be a secret iOS 18.3 feature for iPhones, some of which now support satellite communication services from SpaceX — but only for users invited to join public beta testing of the service on US carrier T-Mobile. This supplements Apple’s existing satellite services supplier, Globalstar.
Following a strong Q4 and 2024, T-Mobile US highlighted how its Starlink Satellite connectivity aided the victims of California wildfires.
The latest iOS 18.3 update enables the satellite texting feature offered by T-Mobile through Starlink for select iPhone users.
Apple Inc. ha estado trabajando en secreto con SpaceX y T-Mobile US Inc. para añadir soporte para la red Starlink en su último software para iPhone, proporcionando una alternativa al servicio interno de comunicación por satélite de la empresa.
Apple collaborates with SpaceX and T-Mobile to integrate Starlink connectivity into iPhones, offering satellite communication in areas lacking cellula
Apple's iOS 18.3 update enables Starlink satellite connectivity on iPhones, expanding mobile phone coverage in remote areas through a partnership with SpaceX and T-Mobile.
Users have taken to Reddit to discuss receiving a text message from T-Mobile about receiving access to its Starlink satellite messaging beta. Users with a Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL have since received messages about the beta.
According to Android Police, T-Mobile has added Google’s latest phones to its beta test of direct-to-cell satellite service powered by SpaceX’s Starlink. iPhones and a select few Samsung phones were already in the beta.