Apple has quietly introduced support for Starlink’s direct-to-cell service in its latest iOS 18.3 update, allowing iPhone users on T-Mobile’s network to send text messages via satellite in areas without cellular coverage. This marks a major expansion of iPhone satellite capabilities, previously limited to Apple’s partnership with Globalstar.
T-Mobile and SpaceX Expand Satellite Connectivity
T-Mobile and SpaceX have been working on Starlink’s direct-to-cell service for over a year, with a beta program launching in December 2024 for select Samsung smartphones. Now, with the release of iOS 18.3, iPhone 14 and later devices on T-Mobile’s network in the U.S. can also access the service.
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The technology enables users to send and receive text messages in dead zones where traditional cell coverage is unavailable. Previously, iPhones could only use satellite connectivity for emergency services through Globalstar. The Starlink service improves on this by allowing general text messaging and automatic satellite connection, meaning users don’t have to manually point their phones toward the sky.
Beta Testing and Future Expansion
T-Mobile subscribers selected for the Starlink beta received text messages confirming their access to satellite texting once they updated to iOS 18.3. The service is free during the beta testing phase, with T-Mobile set to announce commercial pricing upon full launch later this year.
While the current rollout is limited to text messaging, T-Mobile and SpaceX plan to expand the service to include voice calls and data connections in the future. There are also plans to introduce global roaming, allowing users outside the U.S. to benefit from direct-to-cell satellite coverage through T-Mobile’s international partners.
A Shift in Apple’s Satellite Strategy?
Apple’s decision to integrate Starlink marks a shift in its satellite strategy. The company has an existing satellite partnership with Globalstar, which powers the iPhone’s Emergency SOS feature. However, Starlink offers a key advantage—automatic connectivity. Unlike Globalstar, which requires users to point their phone toward the sky, Starlink works in the background, even if the phone is tucked away in a pocket. This improvement could signal a growing competition between the two satellite providers for Apple’s long-term satellite connectivity plans.
Regulatory Approval and Musk’s Vision
Starlink’s direct-to-cell service received approval from the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in November 2023. The approval came after successful tests providing emergency connectivity in areas of North Carolina affected by Hurricane Helene.
Elon Musk has expressed excitement over the development, stating that future versions of Starlink’s technology could support not only text messaging but also image, music, and podcast transmissions, with video capabilities in the pipeline.
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At present, the Starlink beta is only available to select T-Mobile users in the U.S., with plans for broader availability over time. T-Mobile has confirmed that Starlink connectivity will eventually be supported on most modern smartphones. Users can sign up on T-Mobile’s website to join the beta program as it expands. Apple and SpaceX have not officially commented on the collaboration, but Bloomberg reports that the companies worked secretly to integrate Starlink support into iOS 18.3.