Apple And SpaceX Team Up To Bring Starlink Satellite Support To iPhone

In September 2022, Apple introduced the "Emergency SOS" feature, which relies on Globalstar's satellite network. There are now indications, however, that Apple is exploring support for Starlink's satellite network. Following the release of iOS 18.3 two days ago, a report suggested that the update included support for Starlink, but it has since been confirmed by T-Mobile.

In November 2024, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approved granted Starlink conditional approval for its direct to smartphone service. To date, T-Mobile had enabled a handful of Samsung devices to beta test the service, but it is now coming to some iPhones as well.

Although Apple hasn't divulged any information regarding the beta test, T-Mobile explained that it is limited to a few devices at the moment and that the full launch will include a wide range of modern smartphones. In a tweet posted by SpaceX's founder, Elon Musk ...