Apple has released its latest iPhone update, iOS 18.3, with a surprise feature that adds compatibility with SpaceX’s Starlink satellite network. The move allows users to stay connected via texting and emergency services without needing to point their phone at the sky.
The system works by using T-Mobile’s Starlink program, which sends messages saying “You’re in the T-Mobile Starlink beta” when enabled on select iPhones. Users can then activate texting via the satellite menu for the Globalstar service or contact emergency services through Apple.
The initial version of the feature is only for texting, but SpaceX and T-Mobile plan to expand into data connections and voice calls in due course. The service will work automatically, using an iPhone connected to SpaceX satellites when out of cellular connectivity.
T-Mobile has planned a beta test with select optimized smartphones and has opened it up to some Android phone users running the latest software, Android 15. Users can activate the feature by updating to iOS 18.3 or Android 15.
This move marks a significant tech link-up between Apple, SpaceX, and T-Mobile, offering an alternative to Apple’s in-house satellite-communication service. With this addition, Apple has expanded its emergency SOS via satellite service beyond the Globalstar network, allowing users to stay connected with texting capabilities without needing to point their phone at the sky.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidphelan/2025/02/01/apples-new-game-changer-iphone-update-brings-starlink-satellite-access