Apple first introduced satellite connectivity features to the iPhone with the release of the iPhone 14 in 2022.The capability allows users to communicate with emergency services when out of range of traditional cellular connectivity.iOS 18 further upgraded the functionality to let users send messages to friends and family using satellite connectivity.
Apple initially partnered with Globalstar to power these satellite connectivity features for iPhone users.Now, reports that Apple has also been “secretly working with SpaceX and T-Mobile” to add Starlink satellite connectivity to the iPhone.T-Mobile and SpaceX announced their partnership in 2022, and T-Mobile had previously only said that phones from Samsung would support Starlink connectivity.
The carrier opened beta registration for the program in December.report says, however, that T-Mobile has recently started allowing a “small number of iPhones” to test an early version of the Starlink service.The expansion is tied to this week’s release of iOS 18.3.
Apple, however, didn’t mention the change in the update’s release notes.In a message sent to select users, T-Mobile said: “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.” T-Mobile also updated its support website this week to confirm that its Starlink satellite service now supports iPhones.T-Mobile’s current implementation of Starlink connectivity works for texting, but the two companies plan to expand functionality to include data and voice calls in the future.points out another key difference between Globalstar and Starlink satellite connectivity: T-Mobile says it expects to launch Starlink connectivity to everyone “sometime in 2025.” T-Mobile customers can sign up for the beta on the carrier’s website.
My favorite iPhone 16 accessories:
Anker Power Bank with built-in USB-C Cable
Charge your iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods at the same time
Bring wireless CarPlay to any car
Anker MagSafe Power Bank
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