Apple, SpaceX, and T-Mobile have started working together to add support for Starlink satellite communication to the iPhone through the iOS 18.3 update. Beta testing has already begun in the United States, available to a limited group of users.
According to Bloomberg, Apple, T-Mobile, and SpaceX have subtly integrated the Starlink service into the latest iPhone software update, offering an alternative to Apple’s own satellite communication system.
Sources familiar with the matter say that the companies are testing iPhones using the Starlink satellite service developed by SpaceX, founded by Elon Musk. The latest update, released on Monday, now supports this technology, although the company has not made any official announcements about it.
For T-Mobile, this collaboration came as a surprise. Previously, the company only offered Starlink for Samsung smartphones, such as the Z Fold and S24 models. Meanwhile, Apple continued working with Globalstar, offering the ability to send text messages and connect to emergency services outside cellular coverage areas.
T-Mobile announced the start of registration for early access to the Starlink service and began including several iPhone users in beta testing. Musk, commenting on the news, noted that with the current version of Starlink, users will be able to send text messages, and future support for music, podcasts, and videos will be added.
