Apple, SpaceX, and T-Mobile have secretly collaborated to bring Starlink satellite connectivity to iPhones, according to a new report from Bloomberg. The feature began rolling out in a limited beta with the release of iOS 18.3 on Monday.
Unlike Apple’s existing emergency satellite messaging via Globalstar, Starlink’s system allows for automatic satellite connections without users having to point their phone at the sky.
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This enhancement could make off-the-grid communication significantly more seamless. For now, only a small number of T-Mobile customers have access to Starlink’s satellite texting service, with a new toggle appearing in iPhone cellular settings.
While the feature currently supports only texting, T-Mobile and SpaceX have confirmed plans to expand to data and voice services in the future.
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Apple has remained quiet about its involvement, but this development suggests the company is open to working with multiple satellite providers beyond Globalstar.
The beta test is expected to expand in February, gradually including more iPhone users before an official launch. Considering Elon Musk previously hinted at promising discussions with Apple about Starlink, this integration could be a game-changer for smartphone satellite connectivity.
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