iOS 18.3 adds Starlink network support to iPhones on T-Mobile’s network. A report claims Apple secretly worked with Starlink and T-Mobile to roll out the feature.
Currently, T-Mobile is providing Starlink connectivity to iPhone users on its network on an invite-only basis.
T-Mobile inviting T-Mobile iPhone users to try out Starlink connectivity
Apple has a partnership with Globalstar to offer emergency satellite connectivity services on iPhones. So, the move to support Starlink’s satellite connectivity on T-Mobile’s network is surprising. Apple does not mention adding Starlink support in its iOS 18.3 release notes.
The carrier partnered with Starlink in 2022 and has been running a trial program since early this year, with support for the Galaxy S24, Z Fold 6, and Z Flip 6.
Bloomberg reports T-Mobile is sending the following message to some iPhone users on its network: “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.”
Invited iPhone users can connect to Starlink’s satellite when their phone is out of network coverage. Right now, they can only use Starlink for texting purposes. However, T-Mobile is working with SpaceX to add support for data and voice calls in the future.
Starlink has one major advantage over Globalstar
The report highlights one major difference between Globalstar and Starlink’s implementation. With Globalstar, you must point your iPhone to the sky to find a satellite for coverage. That’s not the case with Starlink, as your iPhone can automatically connect to it when out of mobile network area.
If you did not receive a message from T-Mobile to test Starlink on your iPhone, you can manually register for the beta program. However, acceptance is at the carrier’s discretion.
T-Mobile plans to commercially release Starlink connectivity for compatible phones on its network later this year.
Rajesh has been closely following and writing about the latest happenings in the world of mobile for nearly a decade now. While he prefers Android, he does not deny the superiority of Apple’s products and ecosystem.
