SpaceX has been secretly working with Apple for Starlink iPhone support

MIAMI - Feb. 14, 2025 - PRLog -- Apple has quietly partnered with SpaceX and T-Mobile to enhance iPhone capabilities using Starlink.

The Update:

• Apple, SpaceX, and T-Mobile have been testing Starlink compatibility with iPhones, according to Bloomberg, citing sources reportedly familiar with the matter.
• This functionality was reportedly included in the iPhone's latest software update, released on Monday.
• T-Mobile's previous focus had been on Samsung devices for Starlink compatibility, such as the Z Fold and S24.
• T-Mobile has started enrolling customers for an early version of the Starlink service, with a small number of iPhones enabled for testing this week.
• Apple's Starlink is also expected to be rolled out to the Apple Watch Ultra later this year.
• Apple has already been offering satellite communication through Globalstar for texting and emergency services outside of cellular range.

What they're saying:

• Beta participants received a text message from T-Mobile stating, "You're in the T-Mobile Starlink beta. You can now stay connected with texting via satellite from virtually anywhere. To start experiencing coverage beyond, please update to iOS 18.3."
• An Apple spokesperson declined to comment, while T-Mobile mentioned that the test would "begin with select optimized smartphones" and that the full launch would "support the vast majority of modern smartphones."
• T-Mobile has also opened the beta to some users on Android 15.
• SpaceX did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

How it works:

• In areas without cellular service, T-Mobile iPhones will try to connect to SpaceX satellites (https://www.teslarati.com/starlink-direct-to-cell-beta-te...) as part of the Starlink program.
• Users can also manually select texting via the Globalstar service or reach emergency services through Apple's system.
• The initial Starlink service is texting-only, with plans for data and voice in the future.
• It's currently U.S.-exclusive, unlike Apple's Globalstar service, which is multi-national.
• Apple's current satellite feature requires users to point their phone skyward to find a satellite, while Starlink is designed for automatic operation, even when the phone is in a pocket.

This information was reproduced by Starlink Team of EDUP (https://www.szedup.com/products/14) from TESLARATI.