Starlink support appears to be a secret iOS 18.3 feature for iPhones, some of which now support satellite communication services from SpaceX — but only for users invited to join public beta testing of the service on US carrier T-Mobile. This supplements Apple’s existing satellite services supplier, Globalstar.

T-Mobile partnered with SpaceX last year and launched a beta program for Starlink connectivity last December. However, the company originally only offered the option on Samsung ph

The latest update Apple rolled out for the iPhone allows T-Mobile customers — a select few, for now — to be able to send text messages even in locations where they have no coverage. iOS 18.3 adds support for SpaceX and T-Mobile's direct-to-cell satellite service,

Apple is said to be in secret talks with SpaceX and T-Mobile to add Starlink support, boosting satellite connectivity for iPhone users.

As of iOS 18.3, T-Mobile subscribers with a compatible iPhone and Starlink beta access are able to connect to Starlink satellites, reports

Apple's iPhone devices are now eligible to test SpaceX-owned Starlink's direct-to-cell capability that provides coverage from space, according to T-Mobile , a partner in the program.

Apple is working with SpaceX and US carrier T-Mobile to add support for Starlink's network in the latest iPhone software. Starlink would provide an alternative to Apple's in-house satellite communication service, Globalstar, Bloomberg reports. The two companies have started testing iPhones with SpaceX's Starlink service.

Apple Inc. ha estado trabajando en secreto con SpaceX y T-Mobile US Inc. para añadir soporte para la red Starlink en su último software para iPhone, proporcionando una alternativa al servicio interno de comunicación por satélite de la empresa.

Apple has been working with Starlink and T-Mobile in secret to get iPhones ready for expanded satellite connectivity, and the feature is now enabled with iOS 18.3 ahead of the full service launch.