Apple and SpaceX Team Up to Bring Starlink Satellite Support to iPhones
Apple has quietly collaborated with SpaceX and T-Mobile to integrate Starlink satellite connectivity into iPhones, providing an alternative to its existing Globalstar satellite communication service. This partnership, previously undisclosed, was confirmed with the release of iOS 18.3, which includes support for the Starlink network.
The collaboration marks a significant shift for Apple, which has been testing Starlink services on iPhones alongside T-Mobile. Previously, T-Mobile had only specified Starlink compatibility with select Samsung models. Now, iPhone users participating in the T-Mobile beta program have access to texting via satellite in areas without cellular coverage.
Beta participants received text messages 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.” The update includes a toggle in cellular data settings to manage satellite features.
Apple’s partnership with Globalstar has supported satellite-enabled emergency texting since 2022, prompting speculation about broader satellite integrations. Starlink’s service differentiates itself with automatic connectivity—users don’t need to manually align their iPhones with satellites, unlike the Globalstar service.
While the Starlink feature currently supports texting only, future updates aim to include data connections and voice calls. For now, Starlink’s beta program is limited to the US, whereas Globalstar’s service operates in several countries. Both services are designed for off-grid areas, such as hiking trails, and are not usable in locations with cellular networks.
The Federal Communications Commission has already granted SpaceX conditional approval to supplement T-Mobile’s network with its satellites. T-Mobile plans to expand its Starlink beta program in February. Although Apple’s iOS 18.3 release highlighted new AI features and bug fixes, the inclusion of Starlink support went unannounced.
This report is based on information from Mark Gurman and Bloomberg. Read the full article on Bloomberg: Apple and SpaceX Link Up to Support Starlink Satellite Network on iPhones.
