NIX Solutions: iPhone Gets Starlink Satellite Support

Without an official announcement, Apple has enabled support for connecting to SpaceX’s Starlink satellite network on iPhones in the latest iOS update. The feature is currently in testing and available to a limited number of users. According to Bloomberg, this will serve as an alternative to the existing Globalstar satellite communication already supported by iPhones.

The latest iOS update introduces Starlink satellite connectivity, expanding beyond the emergency-only service provided by Globalstar. Previously, iPhone users could send emergency text messages outside terrestrial network coverage. With Starlink, they will now be able to send regular messages, and in the future, make calls and use satellite internet.

NIX Solutions

Expanded Testing and Future Capabilities

T-Mobile had already launched a test program for Starlink satellite connectivity, initially available only on Samsung smartphones like the Galaxy Z Fold and S24. However, this week, iPhone users were included in the beta test. SpaceX CEO Elon Musk stated that image transfers, music streaming, and podcasts are already supported, with video functionality planned for future updates.

Early beta participants received an SMS notification from T-Mobile stating: “You are participating in the T-Mobile Starlink beta test. Now you can stay connected with text messages via satellite from almost anywhere in the world. To start enjoying coverage outside this range, update to iOS 18.3.” Apple has not commented on the matter, while T-Mobile confirmed that the service will first roll out on select smartphones and expand to most modern devices over time. Android 15 users are also part of the beta test.

Starlink vs. Globalstar Connectivity

Globalstar satellite communication has been available on iPhones since 2022, and at that time, Musk mentioned discussions with Apple about integrating Starlink. Currently, iPhone users in the test program can try connecting to Starlink satellites when outside terrestrial network coverage. However, for now, Starlink only supports SMS messaging and is limited to the United States, whereas Globalstar operates in multiple countries, notes NIX Solutions.

One key difference is that Globalstar requires users to point their iPhones toward the sky to establish a connection, whereas Starlink is designed to connect automatically, even if the phone is in a pocket. Satellite connectivity is unavailable when the device is within terrestrial network coverage.

T-Mobile’s website states that iPhones running iOS 18.3 are required for the beta. Notably, Apple did not mention Starlink support in its update release notes. SpaceX recently sought permission to begin testing, and the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) granted conditional approval for trials with T-Mobile last November.

We’ll keep you updated as more information emerges about Starlink’s full rollout on iPhones.