Apple has reportedly partnered with Elon Musk’s SpaceX and US telecom provider T-Mobile to bring Starlink satellite support to iPhones. According to Bloomberg, select iPhone models running iOS 18.3 are being tested under the T-Mobile Starlink beta programme.
Some users received a message from T-Mobile stating, “You’re in the T-Mobile Starlink beta. You can now stay connected with texting via satellite from virtually anywhere. To start experiencing coverage beyond, please update to iOS 18.3.”
Apple iOS 18.3 and T-Mobile Starlink Beta
Apple already offers satellite connectivity through Globalstar, enabling users to send texts and contact emergency services when out of cellular range. Now, for those in the T-Mobile Starlink beta, a new toggle in iPhone’s cellular data settings allows users to manage this feature.
When an enrolled iPhone has no cellular signal, it connects to SpaceX’s Starlink satellites for messaging. Users can also contact emergency responders via Apple or use Globalstar for satellite messaging. Initially, Starlink supports only text messaging, but T-Mobile and SpaceX plan to expand it to include voice calls and data connectivity.
Apple iOS 18.3 Expands Starlink Support to More Devices
T-Mobile has already enabled Starlink connectivity for premium Samsung models like the Galaxy Z Fold and Galaxy S24 series. It has also extended the beta programme to select smartphones running Google’s Android 15. T-Mobile stated that testing is ongoing with “select optimised smartphones” and that Starlink support will expand to most modern devices.
How Apple iOS 18.3 Uses Starlink Satellite Network
Starlink’s satellite network relies on a constellation of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites to provide internet access directly via radio signals. Unlike traditional networks, it bypasses ground infrastructure, offering faster speeds and lower latency, especially in remote locations.
