Applehas partnered withSpaceX and T-Mobiletooffer Starlinkas an alternative satellite connectivity method as part of iOS 18.3. Previously, T-Mobile’s Starlink partnership was only available on certain Android phones like theGalaxy S24andZ Fold 6. This is the first time Apple has made another satellite service available on the iPhone. T-Mobile Starlink is exclusive to the US.
“T-Mobile Starlink currently supports sending and receiving text messages, location sharing and texting 911 emergency services while connected to Starlink’s satellites, with plans to pursue voice and data coverage next,” T-Mobile says on itssupport page.
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Apple has been working to expand its satellite services
Last year, the Cupertino-based company announced a billion-dollar investment in Globalstar
Satellite connectivity has been available on the iPhone since 2022, when theiPhone 14series launched. Initially, the feature allowed users to connect their iPhone to a satellite to contact emergency services if they didn’t have cell coverage. Apple later expanded its satellite services withiOS 18to include the ability to message family and friends.
Apple partners with Globalstar to offer satellite connectivity to all iPhone users with a compatible device. Last year, the Cupertino-based companycommitted over a billion dollarsto Globalstar for it to increase the capacity of its satellite services. It also took 20 percent ownership of the company in an equity dealreportedlyworth $400 million.
While T-Mobile’s Starlink functionality on the iPhone currently only supports text messaging and contacting emergency services, it will soon expand to include calling and mobile data. SpaceX CEO Elon Musk said it should already support images, music, and audio podcasts, with video support coming soon.
Apple just spent over a billion dollars to boost its satellite services efforts
Apple has invested an additional $1.1 billion into GlobalStar, a satellite services provider.
